Gary Kosta

Home After 25 Years

In 1995 and 1996, Mr. Kosta robbed a 7-11 store and a hair salon. In both instances, he pretended to have a weapon on him in order to make the victims of these robberies more afraid. He was sentenced to a total term of 50 years-to-life.  From an early age, Gary Kosta recalls struggling with self-esteem issues and exposure to substances. 

Entering prison as a 41-year-old man facing a life sentence felt insurmountable. But Mr. Kosta was determined to work on himself and come home. He focused on education and earned his GED as well as participating in anger management, Crime Impact Awareness, restorative justice, and programs offered by the California Reentry Institute (C.R.I.)—where ultimately became a program facilitator, mentoring other incarcerated people.

In September 2021, San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan recommended  Mr. Kosta for resentencing.  Mr. Kosta was 66 years old, with 25 years remaining on his sentence when he was released. Today, Mr. Kosta works in hospitality and gives back to his community, with a specific focus on helping people experiencing homelessness. He is hoping to one day start his own reentry center for those returning home from prison.