At the age of 19, Wayne was wrongfully convicted of a crime he did not commit and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Just two months after being charged, while in Cook County Jail, he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ and was born again.

Early in his Christian walk, the Lord gave Wayne a promise—that he would one day go from city to city and state to state proclaiming the name of the Lord. Wayne clung to that promise as he grew in his personal relationship with God, following Him closely every step of the way.

His years in prison became a powerful season of growth and ministry. As God taught Wayne through extensive study of His Word, Wayne poured that truth into others—leading prayer circles, Bible studies, and eventually church services, where he had the privilege of assisting the chaplain in baptizing thirty men.

On February 11, 2021, after spending twenty-three years in prison, the truth was finally revealed in court. Wayne was not only set free but was fully exonerated nine months later when he received his Certificate of Innocence.

He soon married the love of his life, Lena Marie, who had faithfully stood by his side throughout his incarceration. Together, they sought God’s direction for their new chapter. It wasn’t long before Wayne’s deep burden for men still behind bars drew him back to serve there once again.

Today, Wayne ministers five days a week through his twelve-month discipleship program, Builders of Men, teaching classes and mentoring men to become better husbands, fathers, and servants of Christ. He also partners with several major ministries to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to correctional facilities across the region.

By God’s grace, Wayne has found great favor with the leadership of jails and prisons throughout Northwest Indiana and has been granted the highest level of access by state authorities—continuing to use that open door to change lives for the glory of God.