Darryl Kennedy – Crime Guardians
A Journey from Crime to Community Support: My Transformation
How did your lived experience inform your future plans and what was the turning point?
My name is Darryl Kennedy, and my life has been marked by a transformation from a troubled past to a dedicated advocate for crime prevention and community well-being. I was born and raised in Manchester in the 1960s. I was nine years of age when my father taught me the tricks of the trade and how to burgle homes. I was very young and very susceptible. My dad changed my life and the path my life took. My life took a pivotal turn when I found myself facing the consequences of my actions, resulting in periods of incarceration for my burglary offences. These challenging experiences behind bars compelled me to re-evaluate my life and commit to making a positive impact on the very communities I once harmed.
What was the turning point?
The turning point in my life came during my time in prison. Reflecting on my crimes and their impact, I realised the need for change. It wasn’t a single moment but a gradual awakening to the harm I had caused and a desire to make amends. This shift was further solidified when I was approached by a prison Governor to go and share my story with a group of Criminology students whilst on day release from prison. Post release, this enabled me to gain connections with other universities and provide further talks to over 1000 students across the Northwest, including serving police officers undertaking their degrees. . Sharing my story and insights with Greater Manchester Police and Cumbria Police every month provided me with a sense of purpose and a platform to contribute positively to society.
What was a major obstacle and how did you overcome it?
One of the major obstacles I faced was the stigma of my criminal past and the challenge of rebuilding my life after 40 years as a professional burglar. Overcoming this required immense self-determination and support from those around me. A significant turning point was my introduction to ‘The Shed’ in Salford by my probation officer, where I met David Morgan. David’s mentorship and guidance were pivotal in helping me set up my own business Crime Guardians. This new venture, along with my role as an ambassador for Entrepreneurs Unlocked, allowed me to channel my experiences into helping others and advocating for restorative justice. I have been into prisons with David and the other Ambassadors, giving talks to people in prison and sharing my story. I just think if I can change one prisoner’s way of thinking that it’s just the revolving door of going into prison, coming out, and then going back in. If I can change one person’s way of thinking and show them that there is a different path, then I know I am giving something back.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my work in restorative justice and my contributions to crime prevention education. By meeting victims of my crimes through this initiative whilst in custody, and understanding the profound impact of my actions, I gained a new perspective and a deep sense of responsibility. My candid discussions on restorative justice have provided valuable insights into the potential for reconciliation and rehabilitation in the criminal justice system. Additionally, my ongoing efforts to support academic work in criminology and my ambition to engage with schools to help young kids avoid a life of crime are sources of immense pride for me.
What one piece of advice would you give others?
My advice to others is simple: “It’s never too late to change.” I believe that everyone has the potential to turn their life around, regardless of their past. My journey from a life of crime to becoming a crime prevention advocate and university speaker serves as a testament to the power of transformation and the impact of supportive relationships and opportunities.
Conclusion
My commitment to making a difference doesn’t stop with my work in communities and education. I am currently in the process of developing a crime prevention blog that aims to provide support and guidance to victims of domestic burglaries in the UK. This project reflects my unwavering dedication to helping those who have experienced the traumatic effects of crime and empowering them with the knowledge and resources to protect their homes and loved ones.
“It’s never too late to change.”
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