FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 22, 2014
OTSE Establishes Fund to Support New Exonerees
Columbus – In the wake of the exoneration and release of several men wrongly convicted for a murder they had nothing to do with, Ohioans to Stop Executions and the Ohio Innocence Project have established on-line fund raising campaigns to help the men begin a new life of freedom.
“These men spent nearly 4 decades in prison,” said Kevin Werner, executive director of the statewide anti-death penalty organization. “Right now they have nothing.”
The Ohio Innocence Project established a “GoFundMe” campaign for Ricky Jackson on Thursday when it became clear that he was about to be released. On Friday after Wiley Bridgeman was in process to also be released, attorney Terry Gilbert, who represents Bridgeman, asked Ohioans to Stop Executions to establish a similar fund.
“We’re heading into the holiday season,” said Werner. “These men were wrongly sent to death row and spent decades in prison when they were completely innocent. We invite anyone who would like to help them get back on their feet to join us in this effort.”
Donors who don’t like to use credit cards on the internet may send a check to Ohioans to Stop Executions, clearly labeled “OTSE Exoneration Fund” in the memo line. All funds collected will go directly to Jackson, Bridgeman, and their co-defendant, Kwame Ajamu, formerly known as Ronnie Bridgeman.
Links to the on-line fund campaigns are http://www.gofundme.com/wiley and http://www.gofundme.com/rickyjackson. Checks made to “OTSE” with “Exoneration Fund” in the memo line may be sent to Ohioans to Stop Executions, 9 E. Long St., Suite 202., Columbus, Ohio 43215.
Contact:
Abraham Bonowitz
Ohioans to Stop Executions
561-371-5204
abe@otse.org
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