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Courtesy of Patrick Austin

My brother Richard Austin died this year after being infected with COVID-19. A Google search on his name would reveal several things about him. Richard’s picture as well as personal bio can be found on SILive.com.

My brother Richard was a good man who always wanted the best for others. My brother taught me how to read, write, ride a bike, play the drums, as well as many other things. He had a good heart, and it truly hurts knowing that he’s gone forever.

He will not be able to welcome me home when I am finally released after spending more than three decades in this place. Richard was in the National Guard, and he was a traffic enforcement agent in New York City since 1985.

May he rest in peace.

Disclaimer: The views in this article are those of the author. Prison Journalism Project has verified the writer’s identity and basic facts such as the names of institutions mentioned.

Patrick Austin is a writer incarcerated in New York. He is originally from Harlem.