Who is Temujin Kensu?

Temujin Kensu (who was known as Frederick Freeman prior to his conversion to Buddhism) is serving a sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for a first degree murder conviction in 1987. He has served more than 22 years for this offense, of which he is factually innocent. He was 23 when imprisoned; he is now 45 years old.

Temujin was born in Flint, Michigan and spent most of his youth in Burton. In school he was placed in the accelerated program for advanced students, and was taking college classes when he graduated from high school in 1981. He joined the army and was honorably discharged.

Temujin began taking martial arts classes at a young age, studied music, plays several musical instruments, and has an excellent singing voice. He enjoys reading, art, and, power lifting. Through his own study at several colleges, he has received a paralegal degree and a degree in religious philosophy. Temujin also speaks several languages.

As he has matured, Temujin has used his time in prison productively to both become a better person and in service to others. Not only has his study of the world’s religions resulted in his adoption of the Buddhist faith, but he lives his faith in his many volunteer activities by assisting fellow inmates and the officials of his institution. He has tutored other prisoners for their GEDs, is a volunteer sign language translator, and he also assists Spanish-speaking inmates. Temujin also conducts Stop Smoking classes, has participated in Scared Straight programs, and other charitable activities. He is a volunteer writer for illiterate inmates and has had several articles published. He has been elected and served numerous times on the Warden’s Forum, serving several times as chairman.

Temujin has a wide support network of people who are eager to assist him in the transition to re-entering free society with whom he communicates and visits with regularly. Most important of these are, of course, his wife, A’miko, his children, and family. In addition, Proving Innocence and the many others who have taken up his cause are committed to providing practical and emotional encouragement and support once he is freed from an unjust conviction.

---

Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites