John,

We have some promising news! 

Last year, we shared the troubling story of C.J. Rice. The young man who in 2011 was falsely accused — and then wrongfully convicted — of having shot four people in Philadelphia. Despite having a clearly inept lawyer, the pleas of family and friends, and contrary to evidence from his doctor, Dr. Ted Tapper, that he physically could not have committed the crime, Rice was given the egregious sentence of 30-60 years behind bars. He’s been there ever since. 

Upon learning of this injustice, Dream.Org members like you took action in droves. In fact, more than 15,000 of you signed a petition demanding his release, and that is why we are writing to you today. 

Sign to Demand Freedom For CJ Rice!

Last week, US District judge for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Nitza I. Quiñones Alejandro, ruled that Rice had received ineffective counsel during his trial and ordered the Philadelphia district attorney to either retry him or set him free. They have 180 days to make their decision. That means, C.J. Rice, after having spent more than 11 years behind bars, could be free in just 6 months. 

You made this happen. Your voices, shares, and signatures helped to elevate this issue of injustice and we want to thank you. Justice dies in the dark and you used your voice to shine light on CJ Rice’s cause. Your efforts mean CJ Rice has a real opportunity to get the justice he has been denied for so long. We will keep you tuned in with any updates as Rice’s case moves along. 

If you are one of the 15,000 Dream.Org members who have already signed this petition we say thank you, please continue to lift up his story by sharing the petition with others. If you have not signed it, please take a moment to click on the button below and add your name to fight to free C.J. Rice. 

Click Here to Demand Freedom For CJ Rice!

Additionally, please share this Petition link with your network and encourage them to sign and demand CJ Rice's freedom!

Thank you for your continued support of Dream.Org and our mission to close prison doors and open doors of opportunity. 

In solidarity,
— Dream.Org

P.S. If you are inspired by work like this and want to help Dream.Org continue to make positive changes in the criminal legal system, consider making a donation. Your donation will go towards campaigns that will directly impact the lives of tens of thousands of Americans and is tax deductible.