“I swear that I would not enter that facility again. It’s a nightmare,” he said in an interview with the Variety.
Sablan takes prides in rehabilitating himself after serving time at the facility.
“During my incarceration back in 2002 to 2005, there were very limited programs. One of them was for residual substance abuse treatment. I was treated and got my certificate of completion which helped me get out on parole and also to stay away from drugs,” Sablan said.
“I urge lawmakers and government officials to give back to corrections the programs being offered there before, and to add an ‘After Care Program’ to prepare an individual upon release, so he can do good out there and become a good role model to the next generations,” Sablan went on to say.
After failing to get a job following his release, Sablan studied culinary art at the Northern Marianas Trades Institute.
Now employed as a hotel chef, Sablan said he is planning to put up his own business — a catering service or a restaurant.
Sablan has been invited as guest speaker during NMTI graduation ceremonies so he could share his “success story.”
What are the lessons you have learned as an inmate?
Freedom is everything! When you are deprived of it, it feels like you don’t have a life.
I learned not to take my liberties for granted and to cherish every situation that comes my way.
What was the first crime you committed?
I was convicted of assault and battery.
Do you have regrets?
Of course I have regrets. But I can’t take back the past! I regret not knowing any better, and I regret putting my family through the whole ordeal.
Why do some people commit crime?
There was no need or reason! I know for a fact that I was at that wrong place at the wrong time.
What can be done to prevent crimes?
I should have controlled my temper and walked away.
I should have found the time to find a peaceful solution instead of acting on impulse.
In one word, how would you describe your life?
I would say that before I was civil and then I became angry.
When I was incarcerated, I felt hopeless.
When I was granted parole, I felt very grateful!
And at this very present time, I feel very, very fortunate!
What are your messages to the community?
To parents: If my parents were alive, I would apologize for the wrongs I’ve done, and promise to be a better son!
I am truly sorry to my children and their mother for not being there when they needed me most.
To the youth: Listen to your parents and your elders. They know what is best for you, and always obey the law. It is there for a reason.
To the community: I believe it takes the entire community working together to ensure a safe environment for our future generations.
What factors helped you change your life?
The Parole Office and the Northern Marianas Trades Institute helped me find a job and now I’m happily employed as a chef.
I’m grateful and thankful to the Parole Office and its staff, Mr. Vic Cepeda and Mr. Tony Pellegrino at NMTI, and Ms. Josephine Mesta, HR director at the Hyatt, for all their help and support in believing in me.
