In this episode of Doc and the Block, Charles “Duke” Tanner shares his powerful story of faith and redemption.
A promising young boxer with a 19-0 record, Duke became involved in a non-violent drug conspiracy, leading to a double life sentence at just 24 years old—despite being a first-time offender.
His sentence was later reduced to 30 years, and after serving 16, he was granted clemency by President Trump on October 21, 2021.
Since returning home, Duke has launched the urban clothing line Freedom 20-0 and organized food drives that have fed hundreds of families in Gary, Indiana, with support from over 75 Black community leaders. He now serves as a Community Developer with Engineered Tax Services and is an ambassador for Athletes for America.
Duke also founded the Duke Tanner Foundation to empower children, advocate for fatherhood, push for criminal justice reform, and promote unity nationwide.
Give the episode a listen — and after, check out Duke’s new book
ABOUT THE BOOK:
“Duke Got Life” is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring quest for justice. Dive into Duke Tanner’s life-changing story and witness a man who turned his darkest moments into a beacon of hope for all.
Read the inspiring true story of a promising young boxer whose life was shattered when he was sentenced to two life terms. Determined not to die behind bars, he fought an unjust system for his ultimate freedom.
At just 20 years old, professional boxer Charles “Duke” Tanner had the world at his feet. Hailing from the gritty streets of Gary, Indiana, with an undefeated professional record of 19-0, Duke was on the cusp of fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a world champion. But when faced with the harsh reality of providing for his family, Duke took a devastating detour into the world of drug dealing.
Caught in a web of deceit and ill-fated choices, Duke found himself convicted of a nonviolent drug crime and was sentenced to two life sentences—for his first and only offense. What followed was a grueling 16-year battle against a seemingly unbeatable justice system. With every legal avenue exhausted and hope fading, Duke clung to a slender chance for freedom: clemency from a sitting US President. Denied by the Obama administration, his dream seemed over. Yet, in a turn of fate, President Trump granted his clemency petition, setting Duke free.
Now, Duke travels the country, sharing his incredible journey of resilience and transformation. His story is not just about overcoming personal adversity but also about igniting a movement for prison reform. Through his relentless fight, he inspires others to never give up, no matter how daunting the odds.
