Adam's Story: Raising Funds to Correct a Wrongful Conviction

My name is Rose, and my family and I are enduring one of the most challenging years of our lives. My husband, Adam, was wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn’t commit. Initially, we were assigned a court-appointed attorney, but the State’s attorney failed to conduct a proper investigation, prompting us to seek counsel elsewhere. We then hired an attorney, costing us over $11,000 in legal fees. However, in the months leading up to Adam’s first trial, this new attorney never spoke to any witnesses, failed to investigate the case, and procrastinated handing over the Discovery documents, so we could seek other legal avenues to ensure Adam had a fair trial.

Adam’s trial was finally set last month, but our attorney requested a continuance, which was denied. We feel our attorney was not prepared, yet the District Attorney’s office was ready. Within 24 hours, Adam was pressured into accepting a plea deal. He entered an Alford plea, which means he maintained his innocence while being sentenced as though he were guilty. Everyone who knows Adam believes in his innocence — from his friends and children to his parents, my parents, and me, his wife.

Adam’s attorney believes that the DA's office acted unfairly and that there are grounds for an appeal and a new trial. This GoFundMe is to help us hire a new attorney who will fully investigate the case and defend Adam properly. I’m now trying to run our business alone and care for our family, but I simply cannot afford another attorney, yet I know my husband doesn’t deserve to spend 16 years in prison for something he didn’t do. I’m asking for any support you can offer to help Adam get a fair chance in court with an attorney who will ensure his voice is heard and his side of the story is told. Everyone deserves the opportunity for justice, regardless of their financial situation.

This holiday season, we wish nothing but the best for you and your family. Our hope is that you are never faced with a situation caused by the falsehoods of others, the incompetence of those you entrusted to seek the truth, or the injustices perpetuated by lawmakers who take advantage of those unable to defend themselves. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for any donation you can provide.