Until we can find a way to penetrate human thoughts and feelings, we will not know a person's true intent. Is he really remorseful and has he really changed or is he just doing this because of his fear of being deported?
My first cousin is in the same boat... he comes from a broken family, his dad die when he was toddler. His mom married my uncle, who loved him, but he was always rebellious and did not feel like he belong. He's very naïve and impressionable ... murdered a rival gang member in '93 just to be accepted. Fast forward to 3 years ago, he was released. He's a change man both physically and mentally. He has lost a lot of his hair, teeth and is 1000% more humble and patience now. He talks about his regrets and is working as an apprentice under a roofer.
I truly believe he as reformed and a changed man. I would even say he regretted the years lost in prison.
I like to believe we all have the capacity to change...