PBCBA BAR BULLETINS pbcba_bulletin_january 2019 | Page 24
INNOCENCE P r o j e c t
The systemic failures have been identified, but
how we respond to these realities defines us as a
community and as a nation. Fourteen of the Florida
exonerees were freed after DNA testing proved their
actual innocence.
There are many more in Florida prisons awaiting
relief for wrongful convictions. Annually, more than
1,000 requests for inmate assistance are received by
IPF, the organization committed to finding and freeing
the innocent in Florida prisons, helping exonerees
transition back into a changed society, and working
to reform the criminal justice system. However,
operating entirely from grants and donations, IPF
cannot function without community support.
I ask for your help in attempting to right these
wrongs. Please join me at the Third Annual “Stand
Up for Innocence” Fundraiser on Friday, February 8th,
at 7:00 p.m. at the Kelsey Theater, 700 Park Avenue,
Lake Park. Co-hosted by the Palm Beach County Bar
Association, attendees will enjoy an evening of top
comedic talent all in the name of a great cause. A
number of exonerees will also attend to share their
stories about freedom and forgiveness.
The money raised from this event goes directly to
fund the litigation support for these cases, including
critical DNA testing, which alone averages $ 5,000 per
case.
To pledge a sponsorship, inclusive of tickets to the
event, or make a donation to IPF, please go to www.
FloridaInnocence.org.
To learn about additional
sponsorship opportunities or more about the event,
please contact
Nellie King at 561-833-1084, or via email at
[email protected].
(Con’t from pg 18)