Wrongfully convicted. Duane's hope never wavered. Justice finally served.
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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
12 Years
Wrongfully Imprisoned
Uncovering Evidence
Firefly Advocates
Reunited
With Family and Freedom
New Purpose
Now Working with Firefly Advocates
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
Arrested and Convicted
Firefly Advocates Take the Case
Exonerated and Released
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
Dec 30, 2024
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
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
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.
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Derrick Williams
Oct 16, 2024
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Derrick Williams
Sep 25, 2024
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Derrick Williams
Sep 25, 2024
Firefly Advocates focuses on providing assistance and resources to individuals who have been convicted of crimes but are unable to pay fines, as well as those who have been wrongfully convicted.
© 2024 Firefly Advocates. All rights reserved.
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