What a warm and gentle person this guy is. The fact he was incarcerated for a crime he didn't commit and continued to educate himself in law and helped other inmates get their cases overturned and reduced, it speaks volumes of his character. My heart goes out to Leslie, I hope his life is fulfilling from here on out.
Outrageous ! These miscarriages of justice are sickening to hear. I'm SO gutted for Leslie. He was robbed of what could have been an illustrious career and a wonderful life. Instead his hopes and dreams were left in tatters around him. Leslie, your continued integrity shines like a beacon on all of us.
This hurts my heart to listen to. All I can say is what a story. Most importantly, he managed to remain eloquent, strong, and well mannered. Incredible. God bless that man
Yes please do this man is such a wonderful person A tribute to his mom and how he was raised I just pray with all my heart God bless him for the rest of his life and that he is rewarded greatly in the life here after -And I pray with all my heart his life with his children has restored his relationship with them this is so totally unfair this is the saddest story that I’ve seen on your channel Mark
Seems weird that has been no follow up. This Man’s life is stolen from him on a daily basis, it’s not just something that happened in the past and it’s over. Fucking sad that we celebrate this country at all if something like this is happening and only person that ever got this story out to a wider audience is this YT channel. Where’s the Dateline/48 hours/20/20 special covering this? And if it happened to him you know it’s happened to many other people. The use of Confidential Informants in “law enforcement” is very disturbing. I’ve seen cases where they let a CI get away with very bad crimes (up to and including murder) all so that can bust a low level drug dealer. We get a follow up with the “black hat” hacker like he’s some paragon of morality, but this man’s story is dropped?? WTF!
His voice quivered when talked about being a child and not knowing what was going on. This just got me. There is no worse a feeling than feeling sorry for yourself and not being able to help yourself. Injustice is the worst.
um22w22 He’s not “feeling sorry for himself.” He’s feeling the weight, the lack of Adult Agency and this ensuing sadness is his Reality. This man is exposing his corrupted innocence, that of a child and young adult who is clueless. But I absolutely hear ya and thank you on behalf of all who have experienced this sense of helplessness and hopelessness.
America ALWAYS makes Black Adolescents or even young adults older than they are, even if they're not 6'4" or as close to 18 as he was at that time. How would you feel if you were wrongly accused and even getting 2 years behind bars?
20 years for $120? And $250k for what this man went through doesn't even begin to cover it. Also, this man's storytelling ability is incredible. Recalls the smallest details.
He can’t work..what about his ssi? He gets nothing for old age...when your health gets worse. He was totally screwed. But he kept his mind sharp and that goes a long way. God please keep this man safe and prevent any more harm to him🙏🏼
It’s generational curses like these is why black people still talking about reparations. The government should pay him annually. They owe his grandchildren.
It's funny, I'm a Caucasian woman and I never really experienced the racism because I was brought up very open minded and to love the person, not the color of skin. I met a black gentleman that I really clicked with and we started dating ( previously only had white/ European boyfriends. The thing that really opened my eyes was how much we got pulled over in his car for absolutely no reason. He would laugh it off, he's like it's because I was DWB. I'm like what do you mean? Driving while black...it's not right, and I hope to God things change. This man should have gotten millions in compensation. For him and his family to come. I agree
The End Of Me What’s equally sad is compensation for the wrongly convicted is frankly, a pittance and-at least where I am-capped. How do you compensate a person for the life you stole from him? *When you expropriate decades from a person, you have taken that which can never be restored.* I truly wish people would understand there are more wrongly convicted than we want to believe and a paucity of attorneys who can assist them-there’s no $ in working on these cases which often drag on for years if not decades, Yk? And to those few who are truly committed, these cases become all encompassing, you become a member of their family. You have a professional responsibility, a personal commitment and a grinding reality you’re chipping away at day after day while they’re languishing day after day. Your own family inevitably becomes short-changed and not surprisingly, leave. Can’t blame them. It’s a lonely road for all of us on either side of the bars....
TundraWoman Says well said! I often think about how many lives were lost due to false accusations! This country was built on hate and racism...hell a bunch of -isms. I guess I’m the grand scheme of things people kill each other for little to nothing. Life has little value when placed in the wrong hands.
TundraWoman Says I’ve read up on a lot of wrongful convictions and each state has their own compensation guidelines...or lack there of. As there are many stories I have read where men spent 20+ years behind bars and could got nothing. Money would never get them the time they lost back but it would certainly make their lives easier moving forward.
For those who don’t know who Len Bias was the second overall pick in the 1986 draft and was arguably on track to be ‘better than Jordan’ but died due to a drug overdose.The fact this man was able to beat him two times in a row at nearly 30 is insane. This man was robbed of his life and full potential for NOTHING I cannot see how he remains so positive and mild mannered. My prayers go out to him.
Len Bias died when I was a kid, but I always remembered his story. About a decade later when I dabbled in recreational drugs, I never wanted to try coke. It scared me to death, because supposedly it was the first time he ever did it. It wasn't the only reason, I had heard about the addiction part as well, but until you're addicted to something, you don't understand what addiction really is. So the fear of death was more concrete for me at the time.
I got about halfway through. When I heard him say he was convinced of 20 years, I broke down. I don’t think I can listen to the rest. It’s just heartbreaking. A well spoken, smart, young man loved by the community with a promising basketball career… just thrown away. It’s too much. And no amount of winning lawsuits and money can get you back what you lost. I really wish him all the best. Thank you, Mark!
how tf did he get 20 for robbery (that he didnt do) and people get 30 for murder and some get 25 for drug possession. the justice system is the biggest joke
To have to fight so hard and long for his freedom, I'm amazed he never gave up. And then to turn around and help others.🙏 I admire this guy the most. What an inspirational speaker.
Listening to his story has left me in tears and shaking with impotent rage. His entire life has been taken from him...who here believes that no one, NOT ONE PERSON could get the WRONGFUL CONVICTION removed from his record? His life story is a perfect example of the systemic racism that was designed to do exactly what it did: steal a life that was full of promise and also destroy the lives of his children. I am so tired people...the hardest part of all of this is not that nobody understood his plight,. it is that they understood and did not care.
Managerial Elite Toaster We’re not talking about white people, we are specifically talking about Mr Vas’s experience. Go troll someone who is as dumb as you...or stick around. Maybe you can get interviewed as the voice for the soft white Underbelly...js
Managerial Elite Toaster she never even mentioned race in a negative way in her comment at all. What is it with people like you? Why are you always on these pages? Go race bait somewhere else and to answer your stupid question, black people are more likely to be wrongly incarcerated than white folk.
I almost stopped watching this story several times because the more he shared the more heartbreaking it became. Wrongful convictions happen too often in the black community. His best years were taken away without any regard. It's sad to say that if you have black sons, brothers, family members you carry this fear daily. I know I do. I'm fearful every day for my son since he was a teen. He's an adult now, but I'm fearful every time he leaves his home or out shopping, driving etc. Black men are always stopped & questioned because they supposedly fit the description of some other black person when they don't at all. Mr Vass I applaud you for educating yourself in law. I'm happy that you've done great things to be a great man. I like that you're so articulate & have the best memory about everything. Maybe you could start a nonprofit organization that many of us would contribute to for you to follow your passion to help others. I hope that one day soon the governor of Maryland or someone will do what's needed to clear your record. I wish you nothing but the best. God bless you sir 💙🙇🏽♀️ I want to see an update of Mr Leslie Vass hopefully soon.
Dearest Leslie, You are such a strong, good man. Your years of wrongful incarceration could have made you bitter and filled with rage. Instead, they grew you into the good man you are. In prison, you learned patience, forgiveness of a sort, and you learned to accept life on life's terms. You are not a victim. You are someone who overcame a horrific injustice. You are someone that the system could not crush. You are a man with an epic cautionary tale of the system's injustice and how one man was able to withstand the cruelty of those supposed to mete out justice but tragically did not. Your story, sir, could be made into a film for the world to marvel at your strength and how you took the years the locust ate and let them make you into a giant of man not just in size but in character. Always know you are not a victim you are an overcomer of great courage and forbearance. For the thousands of people who will see this video and hear your story, you are a hero. Much love to you always, Nancy J. Simpson
I’m so proud of him. He is doing and has been doing everything right. He’s being crapped on because he’s black. He is fighting to do right, and he’s being stopped because he was wrongfully accused, convicted, and imprisoned. His kids were taken. This is so f’d up there are zero words for it. Thank you for sharing his story. We need to hear about this. We need to know about this. It’s easy to put the blinders on and say, “racism doesn’t exist.” Watching this you can’t help but see every single thing he does is effected by racism.
This dirtiness that has been allowed to continue. There is no compensation that is enough for a person who was abused in such away, a life stolen!! DESTROYED. Should the conviction not be wiped from records immediately?? I am dumbfounded that this happened this way. I am so sorry the American state failed this man so atrociously and even more disappointed that it has continued to happen up to today. Devastating, no other words. May we get to a day when these things cease to repeat.
@@disconnected9023 you missed the whole part at the end where he is 62 and still battling stuff on his "criminal" record that was supposed to be expunged/removed/erased...cause he was found INNOCENT in both cases huh🤔
He is so kind, so worthy and is truly a warm and gentle being. These stories happen over and over again. Society must change - he deserves so much. Much love from Canada.....
This was a hell of a story! How can a federal court room do sutch a huge mistake from a inocent child at 17 years?! What cind of people is this?? Hope this wonderful man can find his peace, and have a wonderful life in the future. Wish you all the luck in the world Leslie! You a a true winner! Regards from Norway!
Mark, thank you for airing this story in its entirety. This man deserves our attention and support. In any way that we can help him finally over come this tragedy, we should. If a petition will work, let’s do it. Bottom line is this man has given back in spite of how he was treated and now he needs humanity to help him. Is there an organization that assists with matters such as this. Let’s do whatever we can for him, just let us know. Tye
This is the kind of wonderful individual I would trust w/my children.... and I have NEVER sd that about someone I didn't know period! I can feel his heart...soul & beauty thru this video. Thanx a mil for posting this Mark! My luv to this gentle spirit....
@@jodilopez7164 Yes I agree with you about trusting Mr. Vass 100% with your children. This man is warrior, both as an athlete at 6'7 and as a fighter for justice, he would protect them 100%.
My heart broke 💔 when he said he went to the Penn as a juvenile in Maximum security. I hear the PTSD in his voice. On top of all that he can't even keep/get a job because of his past. All his dreams taken away from him because of a corrupt system. Don't give up Leslie.
@@carryclass6807 thats what you got out of his comment? You really THAT dumb or you really just domt give a fuck about what he actually gettin at...man up & speak whats on ya heart boy
This happens over and over because the common senses, ”We don't care” is always directed towards African Americans. Look at the time taken from you! ”I was 17 then and I'm 62 now” wow, I started crying! I'm FB friends with you, and will touch base that way, so sad.
That's the point people its a choice. This man pulled himself up by the bootstraps only to be torn down. I would have left everything thing I knew money and all. Someone knew he was like the Phoenix. So they came for him.
Saoshyant logos why would you say that? Shouldn’t we care about all people?! We should care because GOD SAYS WE SHOULD.. I bet if this was someone you loved or cared about you would care. You sound like a heartless careless individual.
@Saoshyant Dig..your that miserable of a human especially under the circumstances and f’d up state of affairs in the world currently. For you to listen to this mans story and your go to is “why should we care?” Speaks volumes to your character and who you are as a person. I hope your just bored and being a troll.
It has happened to white people. I’ll agree it’s happened to innocent people of color so many more times. It’s so sad that this nice man went through this as a child still. There are many racist people and it’s a-shame it’s never gonna end.
Poor man I feel for this guy .. any justice or compensation couldnt make up or repair what hes been through and still going through .. and to remain so humble and calm on the outside with all the torment inside well your a better man than me ! You deserve the best
50 cent is doing a excellent job with telling Aaron Wallace's story in "For Life". He needs to do this man's story too. Maybe a whole series of black men wrongfully convicted and who got themselves out of prision
yeah, everything in the world should be about a certain race, above other races, is this how you purport to support a race? by actively participating in racism? Do you actually think it is only black people being locked up for things they have not committed yet fit the psychoanalytic profile for? Are you that fucking dense?
That settlement amount is a joke. He needs that much per year for the rest of his life. It really pisses me off. What a spit in the face, 250,000? its insulting and preposterously low.
@@Imrightyourewrong1 you wouldn't even understand so why waste my time telling you? you still gonna choose not to believe in him but 1 day everyone will kneel before him including YOURSELF
@@WilbertRamos777 or you're not going to explain because you can't! No one chooses their beliefs dude. And how do you know we'll all kneel before him one day? Is it because it says so in a book?
What a nice, gentle soul...he is so gently spoken has been through so much but carries himself, clean & tall and didn't give up on life or his part in life! I wish him only the best...
Ella G. Palarea..... I agree wth your comment,, one hundrend percent!!! That is EXACTLY where the problem "lie's" ...(pun intended) the core of this problem in America is tainted >> The system is not utilized as it was once intented to be! those that have witnessed injustice ,corruption and experienced it can agree.... those that have "herd" about it or seen/read about it on the news can only offer their opionion, which means nothing, in comparison to those that have witnessed or have had their lives changed forever. the true american dream can in the blink of an eye become a nightmare for anyone....including most regretably , the innocent.
Elizabeth Sheehan you know to both of your points- it really depends. our world is tainted. it lies in us and in authority. time will tell us an answer.
Hope someone sees this who needs this guys many skills and gives him a job. Youd be hard pressed to find a stronger person with more perseverance than this dude
Unbelievable story! I worked in Corrections and I’ve seen wrongly convicted individuals... I don’t feel for criminals but I do feel for guys like Leslie! Dirty ass cop, prosecutors and judges! They need to put them in prison! Good luck sir, I wish you the best! ✌️
This is HORRIFYNG, he was victimized time and time again and then his children suffered by wrongfully being placed in foster care. He is owed so much more than the measly payouts he got when exonerated. His life was ruined yet he kept rising above, with such a humble and kind spirit. This reminds me of a new TV series called For Life - Executive Produced by Fifty Cent and Q Ball Executive Produced by Kevin Durant. Maybe he can reach out to them, a movie needs to be made about him. Mind boggling and crushing to find out the outcome of the informant, the true criminal.
I’m from NY, and I appreciate when he says he’s lived in Brooklyn, that he said it in the Brooklyn accent, then went right back into his Maryland accent (Murrrlan). I love all accents and his is beautiful, as diverse as it is 💕
He is such a great storyteller, he could remember all the addresses and dates of each event, incredible , really enjoyed this one , love your work mark !
In my criminal justice class last year we had a project to research wrongfully convicted men and this reminds me of that protect it’s really sad that this happens to these people
250k, but f!$%ed for life. Has to fight to make a living, and can't get reliable housing for the rest of his life. His kids were put in foster care and he's supposed to be happy about 250k?!? Doesn't add up. Infuriating.
Mr Vass, I'm sorry that our justice system allowed that to happen to you. I'm happy to see that you didn't let it determine your personality. Thank you for sharing your story and bringing attention to a problem that is still large today.
Disgusting, rage inducing and just plain horrifying what this man went through. Common sense seems to just disappear once some people become "officials". So very sorry this happened to you...love and blessings to you Mr. Vass.
Mr. Vass - Your story has broken my heart and I wish I could take your pain away. I hope the rest of your life is filled with everything you want, need and deserve. I would love to donate to you. It’s the least a stranger like me can do. Best regards. You’re a strong person, well beyond your height.
I cannot believe what this poor man went through, not just once, but twice. What a corrupt system we have. They didn’t give a crap that his life was being stolen, as long as they can protect their informant. I’m surprised he’s not bitter. I really enjoyed listening to this man and his heartbreaking story. I hope he finds peace and fulfillment and that his daughter can some day heal, as well.
Speaks volumes about the human spirit! God filled man who kept fighting for inner peace. He truly walks in Grace....bless this man ....am so thankful for ppl like this who give others hope to live & make the most of life God gave them. ...blessings to you my dear sweet soul.🙏
This man is literally such an amazing, inspirational man! I cannot believe all the absolute bullshit he has endured and he seems like such a warm, gentle soul. It’s nice to actually see an inspirational story instead of the usual, depressing, drug addict who was molested. Don’t get me wrong I adore your channel. I legit watch it every single night after my son go to bed while I fold my laundry. This is literally the very best channel I found! I love seeing every new interview! Many have made me cry, some have made me angry but either way I go to bed to your interviews every night. I’m bout to order my tshirt wit Amanda quote on the back! Keep me coming!! Love your work, Mark! Leslie... u are an amazing man, n u deserve the world for your troubles in life. U should have gotten a couple million so u could have lived on that for life!! Stay strong
What an absolute disgrace that this gentleman had to go through all of this!!!! A complete and utter disregard of a fair justice system. Un-bloody-believable!!!!!!! The compensation he received was paltry, I can't even begin to imagine the affect it has had on his mental health - almost his whole adult life dealing with this - it is so unbelievably unfair. I hope Mr Vass sues them again - he deserves proper recompense for life long trauma. I hope he is happy and settled now and whatever needed to be done to put this nightmare behind him has been done (watching this 3 years after being filmed). Best wishes and condolences to this genuinely lovely man.
Our systems are beyond broken, beyond corrupt. While I am grateful to see these systems crumbling from the inside-out, my heart is with those whose lives have been stolen. Thank you for sharing your story so eloquently, Mr. Vass. I wish you all the best and am touched by your determination.
This really got me because there are thousands of stories like his. Black men get locked up for crimes they did not commit. There are almost a million Black men locked up in America, the country my ancestors built. So disgusting.
This man deserved compensation equal to what he would have made as an NBA player PLUS compensation for all he AND his family had to endure all those years. This isn't just a wrongful conviction story - he was set the fuck up by cops. I can never find words strong enough to describe how this makes me feel...my heart goes out to him and his family ❤️
This is HORRIBLE!!! This poor, poor guy should pursue a substantial lawsuit against the state of Maryland. This is such a huge injustice done to him. I am in tears.
Just wow! I cannot begin to imagine going through something like this! I hate that racism exists! I wish these things never happened! my heart aches for all people who have ever been through something like this!
This makes me sick. I hope the people who put him in jail burn in rotten hell. This man is so kind and still so positive after all he’s been through. We could all learn something from this man. I hope this guy finds peace and happiness and God bless this man.
I was wrongfully discharged from the military after 17 years of service. I have a feeling similar to what he is describing. Even after the corrections of the documents, it takes decades to clear up, that you can never get back..
What a Class Act you are Mr. Vass! The unfair cards you've been dealt But still rose above! You're an eloquent man of quiet wisdom and strength. The way you're face lights up when you speak of your Mom, Children and Grandchildren says it all!
What a warm and gentle person this guy is. The fact he was incarcerated for a crime he didn't commit and continued to educate himself in law and helped other inmates get their cases overturned and reduced, it speaks volumes of his character. My heart goes out to Leslie, I hope his life is fulfilling from here on out.
Yes!!! So well spoken!! Asked to be excused for saying the word "hell"!!
This completely crushes me!!
AMAZING. True Life STRUGGLE💪.......
GRACE Throughout the Madness🙏
What happened to him is a shame!
@@alicjaverplancken5152 It truly is and sadly this kind of thing is still happening today.
This man is 62 years old and he’s still dealing with a wrongful conviction from when he was 17 years 🤬🤬🤬
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@@leslievass7035 the world needs more MEN like you....your a TRUE ROLE model!!! Much RESPECT. TRUST COMES FIRST...FIRST!
@@leslievass7035 please get ahold of me...I need a ROLL MODEL in my life.i never had a dad or a TRUE STAND up MAN IN MY LIFE... 3609074586
@@bobfronsdahl634 , excuse my delay. I'm just checking messages. Will contact you soon.
Leslie Vass
That’s America’s justice system.
Netflix needs to investigate this story and if possible turn it into a 10 hour docuseries.
I agree
United states of america owe this man 1 life...he get a green shroom.
am here wth yuh
fully agree
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But he is not gay or trans.... so they are not interested
Outrageous ! These miscarriages of justice are sickening to hear. I'm SO gutted for Leslie. He was robbed of what could have been an illustrious career and a wonderful life. Instead his hopes and dreams were left in tatters around him. Leslie, your continued integrity shines like a beacon on all of us.
Sickening. Gutted. Yes. Unreal.
This hurts my heart to listen to. All I can say is what a story. Most importantly, he managed to remain eloquent, strong, and well mannered. Incredible. God bless that man
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I am so angry I feel like I am having an out of body experience ...
Gets deeper.
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I don’t think that he managed to remain all those traits while being locked up , more like he learned all those traits while being locked up
Please do a follow up with this gentleman, I would love to see him progress after such injustice done to him.
Yes Mark pls do a follow up
Yes please do this man is such a wonderful person A tribute to his mom and how he was raised I just pray with all my heart God bless him for the rest of his life and that he is rewarded greatly in the life here after -And I pray with all my heart his life with his children has restored his relationship with them this is so totally unfair this is the saddest story that I’ve seen on your channel Mark
Seems weird that has been no follow up. This Man’s life is stolen from him on a daily basis, it’s not just something that happened in the past and it’s over. Fucking sad that we celebrate this country at all if something like this is happening and only person that ever got this story out to a wider audience is this YT channel. Where’s the Dateline/48 hours/20/20 special covering this? And if it happened to him you know it’s happened to many other people. The use of Confidential Informants in “law enforcement” is very disturbing. I’ve seen cases where they let a CI get away with very bad crimes (up to and including murder) all so that can bust a low level drug dealer. We get a follow up with the “black hat” hacker like he’s some paragon of morality, but this man’s story is dropped?? WTF!
His voice quivered when talked about being a child and not knowing what was going on. This just got me. There is no worse a feeling than feeling sorry for yourself and not being able to help yourself. Injustice is the worst.
um22w22 He’s not “feeling sorry for himself.” He’s feeling the weight, the lack of Adult Agency and this ensuing sadness is his Reality. This man is exposing his corrupted innocence, that of a child and young adult who is clueless. But I absolutely hear ya and thank you on behalf of all who have experienced this sense of helplessness and hopelessness.
@@tundrawomansays5067 Don't think he meant' sorry for himself' the way it was interpreted.
I'm reading "TidalWave Within Leslie Vass Complete Book" on Scribd.
Check it out: www.scribd.com/doc/380348415
Yes, and first thing putting a gun to the back of his head when he was in no way a danger to anyone...talk about horrifying.
America ALWAYS makes Black Adolescents or even young adults older than they are, even if they're not 6'4" or as close to 18 as he was at that time. How would you feel if you were wrongly accused and even getting 2 years behind bars?
I’m from Annapolis MD, 15 mins from Baltimore and this is still going on this very day. I wish him nothing but the best and he deserves so much more.
20 years for $120? And $250k for what this man went through doesn't even begin to cover it.
Also, this man's storytelling ability is incredible. Recalls the smallest details.
Exactly!!!
Right. He deserves 1B
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He can’t work..what about his ssi? He gets nothing for old age...when your health gets worse. He was totally screwed. But he kept his mind sharp and that goes a long way. God please keep this man safe and prevent any more harm to him🙏🏼
He recalled his free life daily while being incarcerated. He will never forget how he was framed
It’s generational curses like these is why black people still talking about reparations. The government should pay him annually. They owe his grandchildren.
It's funny, I'm a Caucasian woman and I never really experienced the racism because I was brought up very open minded and to love the person, not the color of skin. I met a black gentleman that I really clicked with and we started dating ( previously only had white/ European boyfriends. The thing that really opened my eyes was how much we got pulled over in his car for absolutely no reason. He would laugh it off, he's like it's because I was DWB. I'm like what do you mean? Driving while black...it's not right, and I hope to God things change. This man should have gotten millions in compensation. For him and his family to come. I agree
The End Of Me What’s equally sad is compensation for the wrongly convicted is frankly, a pittance and-at least where I am-capped.
How do you compensate a person for the life you stole from him? *When you expropriate decades from a person, you have taken that which can never be restored.* I truly wish people would understand there are more wrongly convicted than we want to believe and a paucity of attorneys who can assist them-there’s no $ in working on these cases which often drag on for years if not decades, Yk? And to those few who are truly committed, these cases become all encompassing, you become a member of their family. You have a professional responsibility, a personal commitment and a grinding reality you’re chipping away at day after day while they’re languishing day after day. Your own family inevitably becomes short-changed and not surprisingly, leave. Can’t blame them. It’s a lonely road for all of us on either side of the bars....
TundraWoman Says well said! I often think about how many lives were lost due to false accusations! This country was built on hate and racism...hell a bunch of -isms. I guess I’m the grand scheme of things people kill each other for little to nothing. Life has little value when placed in the wrong hands.
@@tundrawomansays5067 i agree so much.
TundraWoman Says I’ve read up on a lot of wrongful convictions and each state has their own compensation guidelines...or lack there of. As there are many stories I have read where men spent 20+ years behind bars and could got nothing. Money would never get them the time they lost back but it would certainly make their lives easier moving forward.
For those who don’t know who Len Bias was the second overall pick in the 1986 draft and was arguably on track to be ‘better than Jordan’ but died due to a drug overdose.The fact this man was able to beat him two times in a row at nearly 30 is insane. This man was robbed of his life and full potential for NOTHING I cannot see how he remains so positive and mild mannered. My prayers go out to him.
They robbed him of a NBA contract! He would've been a friggin millionaire! Damn Shame!
That is the work of one being
GOD and only Him in Jesus name
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Len Bias died when I was a kid, but I always remembered his story. About a decade later when I dabbled in recreational drugs, I never wanted to try coke. It scared me to death, because supposedly it was the first time he ever did it. It wasn't the only reason, I had heard about the addiction part as well, but until you're addicted to something, you don't understand what addiction really is. So the fear of death was more concrete for me at the time.
@@simonelavia2034 God put this man in prison for 10 years?
I got about halfway through. When I heard him say he was convinced of 20 years, I broke down. I don’t think I can listen to the rest. It’s just heartbreaking. A well spoken, smart, young man loved by the community with a promising basketball career… just thrown away. It’s too much. And no amount of winning lawsuits and money can get you back what you lost. I really wish him all the best. Thank you, Mark!
how tf did he get 20 for robbery (that he didnt do) and people get 30 for murder and some get 25 for drug possession. the justice system is the biggest joke
PeachRobot1000 makes me so angry
A molester only got 2 years in prison and got released on anxiety war channel
Right! Pedophiles will get 7 years, Child abuse parents 10 years 😒
Shit some murderers don't do 10 yrs. This is do unacceptable.
Especially when they let actual guilty people free in the interest of "PR" or to "ease overcrowding"
To have to fight so hard and long for his freedom, I'm amazed he never gave up. And then to turn around and help others.🙏 I admire this guy the most. What an inspirational speaker.
Listening to his story has left me in tears and shaking with impotent rage. His entire life has been taken from him...who here believes that no one, NOT ONE PERSON could get the WRONGFUL CONVICTION removed from his record? His life story is a perfect example of the systemic racism that was designed to do exactly what it did: steal a life that was full of promise and also destroy the lives of his children. I am so tired people...the hardest part of all of this is not that nobody understood his plight,. it is that they understood and did not care.
Always some sick people living in this earth bloody disgrace
Because no white person has ever been wrongfully convicted?
Managerial Elite Toaster We’re not talking about white people, we are specifically talking about Mr Vas’s experience. Go troll someone who is as dumb as you...or stick around. Maybe you can get interviewed as the voice for the soft white Underbelly...js
Managerial Elite Toaster she never even mentioned race in a negative way in her comment at all. What is it with people like you? Why are you always on these pages? Go race bait somewhere else and to answer your stupid question, black people are more likely to be wrongly incarcerated than white folk.
@@kinglissa2953 "His life story is a perfect example of the systemic racism," this is her mentioning race.
I almost stopped watching this story several times because the more he shared the more heartbreaking it became. Wrongful convictions happen too often in the black community. His best years were taken away without any regard. It's sad to say that if you have black sons, brothers, family members you carry this fear daily. I know I do. I'm fearful every day for my son since he was a teen. He's an adult now, but I'm fearful every time he leaves his home or out shopping, driving etc. Black men are always stopped & questioned because they supposedly fit the description of some other black person when they don't at all. Mr Vass I applaud you for educating yourself in law. I'm happy that you've done great things to be a great man. I like that you're so articulate & have the best memory about everything. Maybe you could start a nonprofit organization that many of us would contribute to for you to follow your passion to help others. I hope that one day soon the governor of Maryland or someone will do what's needed to clear your record. I wish you nothing but the best. God bless you sir 💙🙇🏽♀️ I want to see an update of Mr Leslie Vass hopefully soon.
Dearest Leslie,
You are such a strong, good man. Your years of wrongful incarceration could have made you bitter and filled with rage. Instead, they grew you into the good man you are. In prison, you learned patience, forgiveness of a sort, and you learned to accept life on life's terms.
You are not a victim. You are someone who overcame a horrific injustice. You are someone that the system could not crush. You are a man with an epic cautionary tale of the system's injustice and how one man was able to withstand the cruelty of those supposed to mete out justice but tragically did not.
Your story, sir, could be made into a film for the world to marvel at your strength and how you took the years the locust ate and let them make you into a giant of man not just in size but in character.
Always know you are not a victim you are an overcomer of great courage and forbearance. For the thousands of people who will see this video and hear your story, you are a hero.
Much love to you always, Nancy J. Simpson
Nancy O'Brien Simpson well said 😔❤️❤️❤️
Lovely words!!
💗💗💗
Well said Ms Nancy the locust tried to devour him but God has a great plan for his life
We will overcome so.e day
All lives matter
тнanĸ yoυ ѕo very мυcн. тнιѕ ιѕ тнe very 1ѕт тιмe тнaт ιve looĸed aт тнιѕ ѕтory ѕιnce мarĸ recorded мe.
тo everyone wнoм нaѕ vιewed мy ѕтory, ι тнanĸ yoυ ғroм мy нearт. ιve вeen readιng тнe coммenтѕ and тry тo reѕpond тo eacн one, even тнoѕe wнoм ғeel conтrary тo мy dυreѕѕ.
"They messed up, but that mess up was devastating to my life." 💔
wow. it's criminal he was only awarded 250k for 10 years of his life.
It should be minimum a million imho a year although ultimately no amount of money is worth a year or years of your life
It's absolutely disgusting! Especially considering prison is a for-profit industry
@Gary Ganew Are you a KKK member❓🤔 You must be fun at parties...
Blame the racist system
To be exact was it 10 or 20years?
I’m so proud of him. He is doing and has been doing everything right. He’s being crapped on because he’s black. He is fighting to do right, and he’s being stopped because he was wrongfully accused, convicted, and imprisoned. His kids were taken. This is so f’d up there are zero words for it. Thank you for sharing his story. We need to hear about this. We need to know about this. It’s easy to put the blinders on and say, “racism doesn’t exist.” Watching this you can’t help but see every single thing he does is effected by racism.
my heart is breaking - my blood is boiling - i'm sorry mr. vass - what a terrific man
Someone needs to make a movie about this guys life.
You know this Gentleman is genuine when he said "what the hell is goin....excuse me"...
Seems like a sweet lovable guy. Wish he was awarded millions. He deserve to get it. Freedom was taken for no reason. ♥
This dirtiness that has been allowed to continue. There is no compensation that is enough for a person who was abused in such away, a life stolen!! DESTROYED. Should the conviction not be wiped from records immediately?? I am dumbfounded that this happened this way. I am so sorry the American state failed this man so atrociously and even more disappointed that it has continued to happen up to today. Devastating, no other words. May we get to a day when these things cease to repeat.
AMEN
Where's Kim Kardashian?
He should be paid millions and that's not enough. Can he get a GoFundMe?
I Agree There Needs To
Be A Gofund Me Started On His Behalf.
I hope An attorney is watching and reaches out to this man to help.
help with what? he's already been compensated.
@@disconnected9023 you missed the whole part at the end where he is 62 and still battling stuff on his "criminal" record that was supposed to be expunged/removed/erased...cause he was found INNOCENT in both cases huh🤔
Saoshyant logos “compensated” is such a meaningless word in his case. There is no way of compensating him.
Kim Kardashian; pls watch and help this gentleman!!!!!
@@diari1978
Thank You !!!! Your reply to that other man is right on! He is a poor listener and Heartless!!!!
His daughter not wanting to talk about what happened to her at age 4 in foster care...is horrifying.
I agree! Just breaks my heart ❤️ Made me she’s a some tears. Not only was he affected by this injustices but his daughter too. Praying for them all.
He is so kind, so worthy and is truly a warm and gentle being. These stories happen over and over again. Society must change - he deserves so much. Much love from Canada.....
This was a hell of a story! How can a federal court room do sutch a huge mistake from a inocent child at 17 years?! What cind of people is this??
Hope this wonderful man can find his peace, and have a wonderful life in the future. Wish you all the luck in the world Leslie! You a a true winner! Regards from Norway!
This almost made me cry 😢 I hate corruption to my core.
Heart wrenching!!! So sad....
Infuriating!!!
That's America and racism. 💔🤬 Peace
Blessings to you and your family from R.I 4/8/22
He’s so lovable, bless his heart! I hope him speaking from the heart in this interview brings him many blessings and opportunities.
Mark, thank you for airing this story in its entirety. This man deserves our attention and support. In any way that we can help him finally over come this tragedy, we should. If a petition will work, let’s do it. Bottom line is this man has given back in spite of how he was treated and now he needs humanity to help him. Is there an organization that assists with matters such as this. Let’s do whatever we can for him, just let us know. Tye
This is the kind of wonderful individual I would trust w/my children.... and I have NEVER sd that about someone I didn't know period! I can feel his heart...soul & beauty thru this video. Thanx a mil for posting this Mark! My luv to this gentle spirit....
@@jodilopez7164 Yes I agree with you about trusting Mr. Vass 100% with your children. This man is warrior, both as an athlete at 6'7 and as a fighter for justice, he would protect them 100%.
My heart broke 💔 when he said he went to the Penn as a juvenile in Maximum security. I hear the PTSD in his voice. On top of all that he can't even keep/get a job because of his past. All his dreams taken away from him because of a corrupt system. Don't give up Leslie.
Out of everything Mark has posted this is truly a depiction of America. I’m so sorry for what happened to you Leslie. Sending u love.
тнanĸ yoυ, all ғor yoυr wordѕ oғ ѕυpporт and ѕтrengтн ιn ғaιтн.
тнanĸ you
yes. it is comforting to know wrongful convictions happen nowhere else in the world except for the USA.
@@carryclass6807 thats what you got out of his comment? You really THAT dumb or you really just domt give a fuck about what he actually gettin at...man up & speak whats on ya heart boy
Wait, what do you mean? Truly a depiction of America? It's despicable and outrageous. But statistically speaking, this is so rare. lol
Can we help him please? This is terrible. I m ashamed of our court system.
This happens over and over because the common senses, ”We don't care” is always directed towards African Americans. Look at the time taken from you! ”I was 17 then and I'm 62 now” wow, I started crying! I'm FB friends with you, and will touch base that way, so sad.
Why should we care ?
That's the point people its a choice. This man pulled himself up by the bootstraps only to be torn down. I would have left everything thing I knew money and all. Someone knew he was like the Phoenix. So they came for him.
Saoshyant logos why would you say that? Shouldn’t we care about all people?! We should care because GOD SAYS WE SHOULD.. I bet if this was someone you loved or cared about you would care. You sound like a heartless careless individual.
@Saoshyant Dig..your that miserable of a human especially under the circumstances and f’d up state of affairs in the world currently. For you to listen to this mans story and your go to is “why should we care?” Speaks volumes to your character and who you are as a person. I hope your just bored and being a troll.
It has happened to white people. I’ll agree it’s happened to innocent people of color so many more times. It’s so sad that this nice man went through this as a child still. There are many racist people and it’s a-shame it’s never gonna end.
This was heartbreaking. They rather ruin a young mans live than admit that they are wrong . 😞
They need to make a movie out of Leslie’s story!!!
Nobody can bring Leslie’s time back but somebody should be accountable for this injustice....!!
Great idea to bring it to light for the public
I hear so much pain in his voice. Made me cry for what he has been through. More people need to hear his story.
Poor man I feel for this guy .. any justice or compensation couldnt make up or repair what hes been through and still going through .. and to remain so humble and calm on the outside with all the torment inside well your a better man than me ! You deserve the best
💗💗💗👌👌👌👍👍👍👍
ua-cam.com/video/5uXDduKPuog/v-deo.html
Godbless
The sadness and disappointment in his eyes, especially at the end of the interview. Wow. What a strong man.
50 cent is doing a excellent job with telling Aaron Wallace's story in "For Life". He needs to do this man's story too. Maybe a whole series of black men wrongfully convicted and who got themselves out of prision
yeah, everything in the world should be about a certain race, above other races, is this how you purport to support a race? by actively participating in racism? Do you actually think it is only black people being locked up for things they have not committed yet fit the psychoanalytic profile for? Are you that fucking dense?
@@disconnected9023 your an idiot!
Where can I few 50's movie For Life at?
Saoshyant logos all “MINORITIES” ✌🏽 stfu
You should watch the innocence files on Netflix. A series about wrongfully convicted men, its so sad
That settlement amount is a joke. He needs that much per year for the rest of his life. It really pisses me off. What a spit in the face, 250,000? its insulting and preposterously low.
this man should write a book i wish him nothing but the best God bless you sir 🙏
God blessed him with 20 years in prison.....
@@Imrightyourewrong1 your one of the dumbest person I've seen in UA-cam that's a stupid cmmnt
@@WilbertRamos777 oh did I hit a tender nerv with that logic?
Where was god when he got 20 years for a crime he didn't commit?
@@Imrightyourewrong1 you wouldn't even understand so why waste my time telling you? you still gonna choose not to believe in him but 1 day everyone will kneel before him including YOURSELF
@@WilbertRamos777 or you're not going to explain because you can't!
No one chooses their beliefs dude.
And how do you know we'll all kneel before him one day? Is it because it says so in a book?
What a nice, gentle soul...he is so gently spoken has been through so much but carries himself, clean & tall and didn't give up on life or his part in life!
I wish him only the best...
He was a child; never having been in trouble. The society that has allowed this over the years. So sad!!
I think he should write a novel, it would be huge. I hope everything turns out well for him. He’s a good person, but deeply 😞
Leslie Vass thank you for your impact on my life.
I reside in Atlanta and can help him with employment
@@leslievass7035 im very sorry for what happened to you
i’m from baltimore and this is such a common occurrence it’s horrible. we need to break down and rebuild authority that we think we can trust. so sad
Oh god. You listened to this and conclude that we need "authority"? I came to the opposite conclusion.
Ella G. Palarea..... I agree wth your comment,, one hundrend percent!!! That is EXACTLY where the problem "lie's" ...(pun intended) the core of this problem in America is tainted >> The system is not utilized as it was once intented to be! those that have witnessed injustice ,corruption and experienced it can agree.... those that have "herd" about it or seen/read about it on the news can only offer their opionion, which means nothing, in comparison to those that have witnessed or have had their lives changed forever. the true american dream can in the blink of an eye become a nightmare for anyone....including most regretably , the innocent.
Elizabeth Sheehan you know to both of your points- it really depends. our world is tainted. it lies in us and in authority. time will tell us an answer.
@Elizabeth Sheehan You are right. Only those who have experienced their corruption really know.
No matter what authority you put in place it will just be blamed for an issue that is mainly cultural in nature
Hope someone sees this who needs this guys many skills and gives him a job. Youd be hard pressed to find a stronger person with more perseverance than this dude
They did this man wrong.
Cases like this truly make my blood boil, and I cannot even imagine how much hurt this lovely man must carry. Thank you for sharing.
Unbelievable story! I worked in Corrections and I’ve seen wrongly convicted individuals... I don’t feel for criminals but I do feel for guys like Leslie! Dirty ass cop, prosecutors and judges! They need to put them in prison! Good luck sir, I wish you the best! ✌️
I love how he told his story...he reeled me in, being able to picture all the events in my head, as he spoke it! He’s so passionate! God Bless him!
This is HORRIFYNG, he was victimized time and time again and then his children suffered by wrongfully being placed in foster care. He is owed so much more than the measly payouts he got when exonerated. His life was ruined yet he kept rising above, with such a humble and kind spirit. This reminds me of a new TV series called For Life - Executive Produced by Fifty Cent and Q Ball Executive Produced by Kevin Durant. Maybe he can reach out to them, a movie needs to be made about him. Mind boggling and crushing to find out the outcome of the informant, the true criminal.
LMFAO
@@disconnected9023 what's so goddamn funny?
You have to ask yourself the question, how many times did that cop do the same thing to other black men?
He's probably fuckin retired now and giving advice to other cops about how to get away with ruining entire laws.
Don't worry they do it to white people too; ya know if that makes it any better.
Hopefully far far less than we think
I’m from NY, and I appreciate when he says he’s lived in Brooklyn, that he said it in the Brooklyn accent, then went right back into his Maryland accent (Murrrlan). I love all accents and his is beautiful, as diverse as it is 💕
He is such a great storyteller, he could remember all the addresses and dates of each event, incredible , really enjoyed this one , love your work mark !
I was thinking the same thing. He has a good memory for the details.
In my criminal justice class last year we had a project to research wrongfully convicted men and this reminds me of that protect it’s really sad that this happens to these people
250k, but f!$%ed for life. Has to fight to make a living, and can't get reliable housing for the rest of his life. His kids were put in foster care and he's supposed to be happy about 250k?!? Doesn't add up. Infuriating.
Pay that man...you can see how accusations can ruin a black mans life...
And the shit still continues to happen!
Mr Vass, I'm sorry that our justice system allowed that to happen to you. I'm happy to see that you didn't let it determine your personality. Thank you for sharing your story and bringing attention to a problem that is still large today.
America is hell on earth for black men and women, it’s tragic
Ever been to Africa?
Tim Berner Africa is a continent, be more specific x
@@timberner977 lol.. original
If you can find a Better place than America, go. Quit complaining.
That my human sister is a damned fact.
Disgusting, rage inducing and just plain horrifying what this man went through. Common sense seems to just disappear once some people become "officials". So very sorry this happened to you...love and blessings to you Mr. Vass.
I love how people from Baltimore talk
Keisha T wowzers really lmao
Keisha T thanks
Lol I’m from Baltimore we cannot pronounce certain words
Keisha T hell yeah me too.
Do-Dew
Too-Tew
Love that Accent
this is probably the most heartbreaking story mark has covered to date
Mr. Vass - Your story has broken my heart and I wish I could take your pain away. I hope the rest of your life is filled with everything you want, need and deserve. I would love to donate to you. It’s the least a stranger like me can do. Best regards. You’re a strong person, well beyond your height.
Thank you so much, Mark for giving Mr. Leslie the opportunity to share his story on this platform. Please do more of these, the world needs to know.
This man has been wronged............Peace and love,brother
What a beautiful person. If I think about what he has been through my heart hurts...The world is such an unfair place.
I cannot believe what this poor man went through, not just once, but twice. What a corrupt system we have. They didn’t give a crap that his life was being stolen, as long as they can protect their informant. I’m surprised he’s not bitter. I really enjoyed listening to this man and his heartbreaking story. I hope he finds peace and fulfillment and that his daughter can some day heal, as well.
His voice is heart breaking, hearing a big man like that so broken.
Speaks volumes about the human spirit! God filled man who kept fighting for inner peace. He truly walks in Grace....bless this man ....am so thankful for ppl like this who give others hope to live & make the most of life God gave them. ...blessings to you my dear sweet soul.🙏
The government OWES this man. This government OWES this man's grandchildren's grandchildren. This is generational
This man is literally such an amazing, inspirational man! I cannot believe all the absolute bullshit he has endured and he seems like such a warm, gentle soul. It’s nice to actually see an inspirational story instead of the usual, depressing, drug addict who was molested. Don’t get me wrong I adore your channel. I legit watch it every single night after my son go to bed while I fold my laundry. This is literally the very best channel I found! I love seeing every new interview! Many have made me cry, some have made me angry but either way I go to bed to your interviews every night. I’m bout to order my tshirt wit Amanda quote on the back! Keep me coming!! Love your work, Mark! Leslie... u are an amazing man, n u deserve the world for your troubles in life. U should have gotten a couple million so u could have lived on that for life!! Stay strong
You have a beautiful soul Mr. Vass. I am so sorry this happened to you, and thank you for sharing your story.
What an absolute disgrace that this gentleman had to go through all of this!!!! A complete and utter disregard of a fair justice system. Un-bloody-believable!!!!!!! The compensation he received was paltry, I can't even begin to imagine the affect it has had on his mental health - almost his whole adult life dealing with this - it is so unbelievably unfair. I hope Mr Vass sues them again - he deserves proper recompense for life long trauma. I hope he is happy and settled now and whatever needed to be done to put this nightmare behind him has been done (watching this 3 years after being filmed). Best wishes and condolences to this genuinely lovely man.
Happens all the time in their community. It’s sickening
@Lynn Hexler-Haan Barry scheck.
Khalif Bowder!
M S W Excuse me grammar police! 🙄
M S Relax! You obviously knew who I was referring too because you took the time to post a link to his Wiki page. My point is still valid. Take a 💊
He has been through hell and back and yet he remains a gentle calm person. What a remarkable person he is.
I believe every word this man is saying. It's stories like these that make me against the death penalty. There's too much corruption in the system.
My heart breaks for what he's had to endure. No words....
Our systems are beyond broken, beyond corrupt. While I am grateful to see these systems crumbling from the inside-out, my heart is with those whose lives have been stolen. Thank you for sharing your story so eloquently, Mr. Vass. I wish you all the best and am touched by your determination.
This really got me because there are thousands of stories like his. Black men get locked up for crimes they did not commit. There are almost a million Black men locked up in America, the country my ancestors built. So disgusting.
Thousands!!
Enslaved for around a hundred years, Jim Crow well into the 2020s and people still have the balls to call black people lazy smh
Mark & Leslie, once again- incredible sharing of stories. If these weren’t told, I wouldn’t have been able to believe it!
That was painful Sir thank you for sharing your story!
This man deserved compensation equal to what he would have made as an NBA player PLUS compensation for all he AND his family had to endure all those years. This isn't just a wrongful conviction story - he was set the fuck up by cops. I can never find words strong enough to describe how this makes me feel...my heart goes out to him and his family ❤️
There is a gofundme for Leslie, if anyone wants to help him out 🥺🥺🥺
this makes me sick. I want to donate directly to this man
I live in Baltimore an his story is “a cautionary tale “ how even when you do everything “right” you still can be wronged.
This is HORRIBLE!!! This poor, poor guy should pursue a substantial lawsuit against the state of Maryland. This is such a huge injustice done to him. I am in tears.
Again, just so, so sad. He is 62 and has nothing. He didn’t do anything but be a good kid. I am devastated for him. I wish I could help him. So awful!
Just wow! I cannot begin to imagine going through something like this! I hate that racism exists! I wish these things never happened! my heart aches for all people who have ever been through something like this!
Leslie Vass is an amazing human being. What a journey and what a triumph. Thank you so much for sharing his story Mark.
The “justice” system did this innocent man dirty 💔
Got what he deserved.
@@disconnected9023 you think 20 years in prison for not doing anything is a good thing?
Saoshyant logos You’ll get what you deserve That hate you carry will kill your sorry soul
@@veecr4675 LMFAO
@@disconnected9023 what you said is disgusting. Watch good now and see what will happen too you. God is watching remember...Keep that same energy
This just hammers the same message home for me
Nothing is more corrupt and incompetent as a government
This makes me sick. I hope the people who put him in jail burn in rotten hell. This man is so kind and still so positive after all he’s been through. We could all learn something from this man. I hope this guy finds peace and happiness and God bless this man.
I was wrongfully discharged from the military after 17 years of service. I have a feeling similar to what he is describing. Even after the corrections of the documents, it takes decades to clear up, that you can never get back..
thank you for uploading this i have experience with this pain never really goes away
What a Class Act you are Mr. Vass! The unfair cards you've been dealt But still rose above! You're an eloquent man of quiet wisdom and strength. The way you're face lights up when you speak of your Mom, Children and Grandchildren says it all!