Ernest Willis is a Texan who was wrongfully convicted of murder and was on death row from 1987 – 2004. He was released in October. The following were the reasons his case was dismissed:
- Texas authorities had violated Mr. Willis’ right to a fair
trial by administering massive doses of antipsychotic drugs to
him during his trial, without his consent and without any
medical justification. - Texas authorities suppressed a psychiatric report, procured by
prosecutors, that was favorable and material to the death
sentence finding. - Mr. Willis’ appointed counsel was ineffective at both the
trial and sentencing phases of the case. Mr. Willis will be
the first inmate released from Texas’ Death Row since 1997,
and the eighth inmate overall since Texas re-instituted the
death penalty in 1976.
This is another sick example of abuse of power. It’s disgusting.
There is a fund set up to help Mr. Willis get back on his feet. I’m sending in a check, I hope you do to. Make the checks payable to Ernest Willis.
Ernest Willis “Get Back on Your Feet” Fund
c/o James S. Blank
Latham & Watkins
885 Third Ave.
New York, New York 10022
