JERSEY CITY, N.J. – A former New Jersey prison chef is making the most out of a second chance.
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Candido Ortiz was serving a 49-year federal sentence for drug-related crimes when he was released last December through an executive order by President Barack Obama along with other inmates serving lengthy drug sentences.
With the help of a prisoner re-entry program, Ortiz is opening a Jersey City restaurant that will serve American and Hispanic dishes.
This week he received a congratulatory letter from Obama.
Ortiz said Tuesday he’s looking forward to giving back to the community and he’s a changed man.
He had served more than 26 years in prison when he was released.
