Mandatory Minimum Sentence of 213 Years in Federal Prison
ADAM CANDIDLY SHARES THE EVENTS LEADING TO HIS INCARCERATION
While my various appeals were still pending I thought it prudent not to 'confess' my guilt concerning any of the crimes for which I was convicted. However, at this stage there are no lingering appeals nor is there the possibility of any future appeal. My case has run its course through the legal system and repeatedly both my sentence and conviction have been 'affirmed'. I can now speak candidly about the events that lead me here.
It all began, and ended, during one very cold, dark month when I committed a string of nine robberies in relatively short succession. At that time my personal life was a real mess and I had no substantial plans for the future. I'd spent most of the previous two years completely submerged in the City's emerging night life social scene and all that partying had taken its toll on my physical health. Obviously my mental health had also seriously suffered because I somehow managed to rationalize a scheme that was concocted to rob criminals...and once I'd ventured across that line my rapid decline and spectacular crash became inevitable.
It all began, and ended, during one very cold, dark month when I committed a string of nine robberies in relatively short succession. At that time my personal life was a real mess and I had no substantial plans for the future. I'd spent most of the previous two years completely submerged in the City's emerging night life social scene and all that partying had taken its toll on my physical health. Obviously my mental health had also seriously suffered because I somehow managed to rationalize a scheme that was concocted to rob criminals...and once I'd ventured across that line my rapid decline and spectacular crash became inevitable.
Adam's Arrest
On February 28th, 2000 I was arrested at the scene of a robbery that I'd just committed in downtown, Center City, Philadelphia. Somewhat ironically, the events of that fateful night unfolded only footsteps away from 'Independence Mall' where the famed 'Liberty Bell' is housed. I've remained in custody since forfeiting my own liberty that frigid night.
Eight of the nine robberies that I committed were illegal enterprises that were admittedly linked to Asian Organized Crime. The government was loath to admit this since most of those establishments were operating right under the shadow of City Hall...in the very same neighborhood as the FBI Building and the Federal Courthouse. I had specifically chosen those places because I (wrongly) believed that there was little harm in stealing from criminals. Unfortunately, I never paused to consider personal circumstances, motivations, or emotional states of my victims and how my actions might affect each of them. My crimes undoubtedly made their lives even more difficult and I greatly regret contributing to their hardships.
The one remaining (9th) robbery occurred just across the Ben Franklin Bridge, outside a bar and restaurant in the area of South Jersey where I spent most of my youth. That crime was instigated and fueled by personal disputes which I was not directly involved. I did in fact contribute to the robbery and benefited from it, although I was not physically present during the commission of that crime. However, these victim's testimonies were some of the most difficult to hear, since I knew both individuals. Their words have hung heavily upon my conscience throughout the years.
The many ensuing years that I've spent here 'behind the wall' have drastically altered my perspective on life in general and allowed me to realize the gravity of my offenses. My crimes obviously affected my victims but they also seriously affected the lives of so many of my family, friends and loved ones. I owe ALL of those individuals my deepest and most sincere apology. (If this pertains to you, 'I am so very sorry for all the distress I caused you'.)
I've finally arrived at a point in my life where I am able to take full responsibility for ALL of the events which lead me to where I am today. Furthermore, all these years I've spent in prison have afforded me the opportunity to become acutely aware of my innate ability to influence and lead the men around me. It's the acceptance of this understanding that has lead me to reluctantly acknowledge a greater responsibility for the actions of others involved in my crimes. I've grown to realize that along with the great responsibility of leadership comes a moral obligation to positively direct and influence all those around you. I failed to utilize my influence in a positive manner when it absolutely mattered the most and now so many, including myself, are paying the price. There is no way to re-write the past but it's imperative to learn from your mistakes and that's exactly what I've attempted to do during my time in prison. I try to say what I mean, do what I say, and set a positive example for others each and every single day...and for now that's the best that I can do.
- Adam B. Clausen 2/10/10
Eight of the nine robberies that I committed were illegal enterprises that were admittedly linked to Asian Organized Crime. The government was loath to admit this since most of those establishments were operating right under the shadow of City Hall...in the very same neighborhood as the FBI Building and the Federal Courthouse. I had specifically chosen those places because I (wrongly) believed that there was little harm in stealing from criminals. Unfortunately, I never paused to consider personal circumstances, motivations, or emotional states of my victims and how my actions might affect each of them. My crimes undoubtedly made their lives even more difficult and I greatly regret contributing to their hardships.
The one remaining (9th) robbery occurred just across the Ben Franklin Bridge, outside a bar and restaurant in the area of South Jersey where I spent most of my youth. That crime was instigated and fueled by personal disputes which I was not directly involved. I did in fact contribute to the robbery and benefited from it, although I was not physically present during the commission of that crime. However, these victim's testimonies were some of the most difficult to hear, since I knew both individuals. Their words have hung heavily upon my conscience throughout the years.
The many ensuing years that I've spent here 'behind the wall' have drastically altered my perspective on life in general and allowed me to realize the gravity of my offenses. My crimes obviously affected my victims but they also seriously affected the lives of so many of my family, friends and loved ones. I owe ALL of those individuals my deepest and most sincere apology. (If this pertains to you, 'I am so very sorry for all the distress I caused you'.)
I've finally arrived at a point in my life where I am able to take full responsibility for ALL of the events which lead me to where I am today. Furthermore, all these years I've spent in prison have afforded me the opportunity to become acutely aware of my innate ability to influence and lead the men around me. It's the acceptance of this understanding that has lead me to reluctantly acknowledge a greater responsibility for the actions of others involved in my crimes. I've grown to realize that along with the great responsibility of leadership comes a moral obligation to positively direct and influence all those around you. I failed to utilize my influence in a positive manner when it absolutely mattered the most and now so many, including myself, are paying the price. There is no way to re-write the past but it's imperative to learn from your mistakes and that's exactly what I've attempted to do during my time in prison. I try to say what I mean, do what I say, and set a positive example for others each and every single day...and for now that's the best that I can do.
- Adam B. Clausen 2/10/10