Excessive Sentences
Due in large part to the continuing campaign to “get tough” on crime, Alabama’s prison population has skyrocketed from 6000 prisoners in 1979 to over 28,000 prisoners today. Alabama currently has the fifth highest incarceration rate in the country and is among the top 5 states in imposing the longest sentences for violent, non-violent, and drug offenses alike. Alabama’s prisons and jails hold more than twice as many people as they were designed to house. From 2000-2004, Alabama’s spending on prisons increased by nearly 45% -- but its budget for schools increased only 7.5%.
EJI recently succeeded in obtaining relief for dozens of non-violent offenders sentenced to life imprisonment without possibility of parole as a result of Alabama’s notorious Habitual Felony Offender Act. The law mandates a life without parole sentence for a fourth felony even if it is a non-violent crime – like stealing a bicycle, writing a bad check, or drug possession. Through successful litigation in the Alabama Supreme Court and in trial courts across the state, EJI assisted non-violent offenders unfairly condemned to spend the rest of their lives in prison. As a result of EJI’s efforts, many now have won their freedom.
News
Capital Murder Charges Dropped in Case of Mother Accused in Death of Newborn
February 2, 2010
Marsha Colby, pictured with two of her six children in 1997, prior to being falsely accused of killing her seventh child at birth.
Capital murder charges filed against Marsha Colby in the death of her infant son have been dismissed and the case resolved on reduced charges in light of new forensic evidence.
EJI Challenges Homelessness and Permanent Punishment Caused by Alabama's Community Notification Act
November 18, 2009EJI is working to assist people who have been forced into homelessness, denied critical medical care, and subjected to permanent imprisonment as a result of Alabama's Community Notification Act.
EJI Wins New Trial for Mother Illegally Sentenced to Life Without Parole
September 8, 2009On September 4, 2009, the Alabama Supreme Court reversed the conviction and sentence imposed on Marsha Colby, who was convicted of capital murder after giving birth to what doctors believe was a stillborn baby.
Alabama Leads Nation in Sentencing Black Kids to Life Imprisonment
July 27, 2009A national study found that more prisoners today are serving life sentences across the country than ever before. Alabama ranks among the top three states for number of life sentences imposed and is the national leader in racially disproportionate sentencing of children to life in prison.
State of Alabama Pardons Former EJI Client Mack Kirby
July 17, 2009On July 8, 2009, the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles issued a formal pardon for former prisoner Mack Kirby. The Board’s decision, which was unanimous, restores Mr. Kirby’s voting rights and ends his parole supervision.