Mike's father was a graduate of Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida and Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. As well as being an alumni of FAMU, he was also a professor there until relocating to Orlando, accepting a position in the Computer Engineering field. On January 13, 2006, Michael’s father passed away from complications with a kidney transplant. He was a member of several organizations some of which are listed: The Masonic Lodge, the Mystic Shriners, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, FAMU Alumni Association, etc.

Mike’s mother is a graduate of Florida A&M University and Florida State University. She is a professor at FAMU as well as devotes time to community and civic work. She is a member of several organizations. Some of which are listed: Emeritus Member of the Florida Board of Bar Examiners; Member of the Steele-Brooks Institute, Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the American Counseling Association, etc.

Michael was raised in an upper-middle class environment. He was always seen as a very likable and personable young man. Reared in an academic environment benefited Michael greatly. His locator tests in 9th grade indicated a comprehension education level equivalent to that of a college freshman, Mathematics and science were his specialty, as his most recent IQ scores range from 125-130. Michael split his school time between academics and athletics. He was a member of the football and track teams. During his high school years, he was also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Kids First, Inc.

A local psychologist gave Michael a battery of test to assess his propensity toward sexual deviant behavior. In her analysis of Mike, she indicated that she did not see him as one who could be accused of sexual assault, as nothing in his behavior or the tests she administered indicated such behavior. She felt that something was not right with this case.

Some speculate that perhaps Mike’s juvenile record some years earlier had colored the outcome of this case. No matter the environment we as parents try to create for our children, we are no match for the lure of materialism and the media. Michael paid his debt to society for his poor teenage choice. He should not have to forfeit his adult life for a mistake in his youth. Justice requires an opportunity for redemption and fair play every time we come before the court.