How can a bad system justify keeping a good man.

Ask anyone who knows Willie Rae Fleming on a personal level, and they’d speak to how honorable and full of integrity he is. His character proves him to be a wise, noble, and dependable man. Willie is a mentor, advisor and trusted friend to many within his community. Those who have the privilege of being in relationship with him have the utmost respect for him because of the impact he has made in their lives and the community he is rooted in. He is a life-coach who day-in and day-out, empowers, encourages and uplifts incarcerated men,newly released people, and community leaders. He is a true hero to those who know him.

So, why is a man of such esteem and honor being imprisoned for 48 years without the ability to apply for parole until 2036? What could justify keeping a good man locked up for a day longer?

The answer is a faulty criminal justice system. A system that continues to overwhelm court-appointed attorneys with cases well beyond their ability to handle them with the diligence required. A system that ignores its civilians' lack of understanding of how it works. A system that is fueled by locking people up instead of empowering them to be humanized and loved members of society.

The details of Willie Rae Fleming’s case unveil a few areas within the criminal justice system that fail those it claims to serve. In May of 2010, Willie was hit by an 18-wheeler. He was then  prescribed opioid pain medication which led to an addiction. A husband and new father, Willie hit a hard time financially while trying to overcome his addiction. The mental turmoil led to a decision he takes full responsibility for. He was charged for taking an unloaded handgun into a motel and taking less than $200.

Unable to afford a lawyer, Willie was given a court-appointed lawyer who pled him to a 48-year sentence without any investigation, mitigation, or defense plan. He didn’t fight for Willie’s rights at all.  Like Willie, many who are unable to afford a strong legal team and are unaware of the entails of the system find themselves in a predicament with no choices but to accept the first plea deal. 

Even while behind bars, Willie Rae Fleming continues to pursue a life of love, integrity and purpose. He is currently mentoring other incarcerated men through TDCJ’s life-coach program. Willie holds true to his personal mantra of, “a lot of love will cure a lack of love”. He loves people and he loves his community. In the midst of his situation, Willie continues to fight for others. And he needs us to continue fighting for him.

His community is fighting for his freedom because we believe he is a valuable asset to the world. He has so much to offer this world and has served his time. He deserves to be free.