Free Spel, Fidel, and John
Questions? Contact us at development@PAinnocence.org.
Together, Hernan "Spel" Cortes, Fidel Santiago, and John Payne have spent more than 120 years wrongfully incarcerated. Now, on July 10th, they will have a chance to be heard.
On July 10th, Spel, Fidel, and John go before the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons for a merit review. If voted forward, each will proceed to a public hearing where the Board will make a final decision on their applications for commutation of their sentences for crimes they did not commit. Despite exemplary conduct in prison and widespread community support, they’re at risk of remaining behind bars for the rest of their lives. For Spel, Fidel, and John, this is likely a last chance to have their cases heard and to hope for release from prison.
Three Ways You Can Take Action
Subscribe to Campaign Updates: Join the email list to receive updates on this effort directly to your inbox, and remain a part of our work to support Project clients beyond the hearing on July 10th: click here to join.
Spread the Word: We are asking supporters to forward campaign emails, share posts on social networks, and help to spread the word about your support for Project clients. An easy place to start is to look for our campaign newsletter on the Project's LinkedIn page and share posts with your network.
Letter Writing Campaign: You can write a letter in support of each client going before the Board of Pardons. Click below to add your signature to each letter electronically, or download each template here: Fidel Santiago, Hernan “Spel” Cortes, and John Payne. Email your completed letters to info@PAinnocence.org by Wednesday, July 2nd, for inclusion in each client’s commutation application packet.
Send your letter today!
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Send your letter today! 〰️
See more of their stories at these direct links: Fidel Santiago, Hernan “Spel” Cortes, and John Payne. Sign up below to receive their stories, action steps you can take to help them, and updates on the clemency process directly to your inbox.