One of the most significant misfortunes that our justice system has faced for decades is the harsh sentencing disparities of young adults, and our justice system continues to be deeply unfair and biased against African Americans. Sentencing policies, implicit racial bias, and socioeconomic inequality contribute to racial disparities at every level of the criminal justice system. Today, people of color make up 37% of the U.S. population but 67% of the prison population. Overall, African Americans are more likely than white Americans to be arrested; once arrested, they are more likely to be convicted; and once convicted, they are more likely to face stiff sentences. Black men are six times as likely to be incarcerated as white men and Hispanic men are more than twice as likely to be incarcerated as non-Hispanic white men. These facts were researched and stated by The Sentencing Project. 

This is the story of a bright, young African American, Michael A. Williams #1081925 

At a young age since May 7, 2002, Michael A. Williams has been in prison, wrongfully convicted and sentenced to two life sentences without parole under Virginia's inhuman and unfair prison system. It has been 18 years since Michael A. Williams has been incarcerated. There was no DNA evidence, physical evidence, substantial evidence or any reliable witnesses to prove that Michael Williams was guilty of such a crime. For many years, Michael’s family and friends could not afford the expenses of an attorney or legal representation, leaving Michael without any hope or any confidence in the justice system. 

During a four day trial, the Commonwealth’s key witness made a positive identification as to who she recognized and identified was the intruder who committed such crime, not Michael A. Williams. The key witness was then removed from the witness stand by the Commonwealth and Michael was found guilty by a jury. This case was solely based on plea deals by other convicted individuals who turned on Michael to shorten their sentencing. This in itself is another argument on how our justice system puts black men against each other with coercive interrogation and the fear of long sentencing. Despite Michael having a clean record, no prior convictions, no alias and no gang affiliations he was sentenced to die in prison. 

Michael has no substance abuse issues and encourages other inmates with a healthy lifestyle. He is long and far removed from any negative influences that plagued his younger years and has shown strong redemption for the situation at hand.  He is a man of faith, respect, honor, and has proven noble character. He has made achievements during his incarceration by completing over a dozen programs, which includes obtaining his G.E.D. and learning a second language.  He has served as a mentor for other inmates and sets a proper example to the younger prisoners. 

He deeply regrets the negative impact that any behavior in his prior life has had, and he yearns for the opportunity to contribute to society and reunite with his family. Second chances should not only be granted to the affluent, but also to those deserving. Michael has turned his life into service and is deserving of a second chance. 

He poses absolutely no threat to all of civilization.  In addition, Michael has many family members, loved ones and community support systems necessary to make his transition from imprisonment to adjustment into society.  

We are respectfully asking the Honorable Governor Ralph S. Northam to please review Michael A. Williams #1081925 case files and find his innocence.  ‘Death in prison’ is not any form of rehabilitation but of pain and suffering. 

“Transformation should be accompanied by Hope”, says Bill Haslam, ex-governor of the state of Tennessee. 

“The legacy of racism continues not just in isolated incidents, but as part of a system that touches every person and every aspect of our lives, whether we know it or not, and if we’re serious about righting the wrong that began here at this place we need to do more than talk,” Governor Ralph Northam said. “We need to take action.”

For these reasons, we request the Governor’s assistance with granting Michael clemency, conditional pardon, or a modified sentence and the possibility of parole. Please sign the petition and join our movement to help free Michael!   #freeMichaelWilliams

WRITE TO MICHAEL & LET HIM KNOW HE'S NOT ALONE & HAS YOUR SUPPORT!

Mailing address:

Michael A. Williams #1081925

River North Correctional Center

329 Dellbrook Lane

Independence, VA 24348

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Electronic Mail to Michael is accepted through Jpay.com!