12 Years Stolen. One Life Restored.

Wrongfully convicted. Duane's hope never wavered. Justice finally served.

Meet Duane Williams

Duane Williams was a 27-year-old husband, father, and dedicated community member. He loved spending time with his family, working hard to provide for them, and dreaming of a bright future. Known for his kind heart and resilience, Duane’s life took a devastating turn in 2009.

I was just living my life, taking care of my family, and then everything was ripped away.

~ Duane Williams

I was just living my life, taking care of my family, and then everything was ripped away.

~ Duane Williams

Highlights

12 Years

Wrongfully Imprisoned

Uncovering Evidence

Firefly Advocates

Reunited

With Family and Freedom

New Purpose

Now Working with Firefly Advocates

Duane’s Story

In 2009, Duane Williams was accused of a crime he didn’t commit. At just 27, he was sentenced to 11 years behind bars — a victim of a flawed justice system. His life, dreams, and family were ripped away, all because the system failed him.

Duane’s story is a chilling example of what happens when justice is rushed and evidence is overlooked. Misidentification and inadequate defense led to his wrongful conviction. For over a decade, he held onto hope, waiting for the truth to come to light.

Separated from my family for over a decade. I never stopped believing the truth would come out.

~ Duane Williams

Separated from my family for over a decade. I never stopped believing the truth would come out.

~ Duane Williams

Timeline

2013

Arrested and Convicted

2023

Firefly Advocates Take the Case

2024

Exonerated and Released

A New Beginning

Duane’s journey didn’t end with his release. We brought him into our team, transforming his pain into purpose. Now, Duane works to help others who are fighting for their freedom, ensuring no one else suffers the same fate.

News

NEWS

Dec 30, 2024

12 years in prison: Detroit man freed after conviction of double murder

NEWS

Dec 30, 2024

Wronged: The Maurice Carter Story

NEWS

Dec 30, 2024

Detroit man spent decade in prison for double murder he didn't commit as investigators were promoted

That persuaded the medical examiner to change the cause of death from accidental to homicide. Soon, authorities had Williams on trial for murder

NEWS

Dec 30, 2024

Man convicted for arson fire that killed 2, has conviction vacated after 11 years

Duane Williams, 53, was serving a life sentence for felony murder after it was alleged he started a house fire that killed Bobby Cross and Darryl Simms.

NEWS

Dec 30, 2024

Life sentence vacated for Detroit man convicted in house fire that killed 2 people in 2012

A Detroit man who has spent the last 11 years in prison will be released after a judge vacated his convictions and sentences, officials said.

Podcasts

Podcast

November 20, 2024

Behind the Bench with Todd Flood | EP24 Behind the Bench with Todd Flood | EP24

Podcast

June 27, 2024

Detroit Man Incarcerated For Wrongful Convictions Released After 11 Years

Podcast

June 27, 2024

The Curious Case of Duane Williams

Social Media

Gallery

Injustice thrives when we stay silent. Share Duane’s story. Support Firefly. Be part of the fight for justice.