John: DNA results provide clear and convincing evidence that Marcellus Williams did not commit the murder he’s been convicted of. And yet, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is fighting to have the state execute him anyway.

On Aug. 28, the office of St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell admitted that the prior administration had committed constitutional errors contributing to Marcellus’ unreliable murder conviction and death sentence. These errors included mishandling a key piece of evidence that could have exonerated Marcellus. 

Now, we’re hoping the circuit court will agree with PA Bell and vacate Marcellus’ death sentence. Until then, Attorney General Andrew Bailey will continue to make every effort to try to execute an innocent man.

Attorney General Bailey and his office have a history of fighting innocence cases, and officials have opposed every case for the last three decades. That includes every attempt made by a local prosecutor to overturn a conviction on the basis of innocence. 

That’s who we’re up against, John. On July 18, 2024, Attorney General Bailey filed a writ of prohibition asking the Missouri Supreme Court to block the Circuit Court of St. Louis County from hearing the DNA evidence that proves Marcellus’ innocence.

And even though the Missouri Supreme Court denied his application and the circuit court is moving forward with the hearing, the staggering reality remains: Unless we act now, Marcellus will be executed on Sept. 24.

John: We’re counting on you to act now to stop Missouri from making the irreversible mistake of executing an innocent man. With only 19 days left, please act now:

Thank you, 

Innocence Project