Ofonzo “Zo” Antonio Staton is a Training & Research Assistant at MILPA. A native of Bennettsville, South Carolina, he brings a unique and impactful perspective to his work. His professional focus centers on addressing systemic inequities within the criminal justice system, informed by his personal experience with wrongful conviction and subsequent incarceration. 

His contributions to MILPA are driven by a commitment to dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline and advocating for restorative justice practices. During his 23-year incarceration, he actively mentored young adults within the Restoring Promise Unit, providing guidance and support. He leverages his lived experience to inform research and training initiatives, promoting positive change and fostering resilience within marginalized communities.