Willie Junior Simmons is a 68 year old Alabama man serving his 43th year of a life sentence without parole for a $9 robbery.
He was charged with life without parole under Alabama’s Habitual Felony Offender Act, as he had 3 prior non violent convictions (property crimes). His 4th offense consisted of him wrestling a man to the ground and stealing his wallet which contained $9. He was charged with first degree robbery even though there was no weapon present and no injury sustained. His trial lasted 25 minutes and his appointed attorney called no witnesses.
Over the years, Willie has filed several appeals without any legal assistance and was denied every time. Based on a 2014 change in Alabama laws, he seems to have no appeal options left.
We are a small group of citizens who have come together as “Team Willie Simmons” to advocate on Willie’s behalf. He has gone 40 years now with very little help or contact with the outside world. All of his family has since passed away, and he has no one left.
Since becoming aware of his story in June of 2020, we have been in weekly communication with him. We have have found him a lawyer and we have been providing him with money for his everyday needs. This fundraiser was created to raise funds for Willie Simmons’ legal fees and his post-release plan. We are hoping to raise as much as possible to ensure that upon his release, he is able to enjoy the rest of his life in peace.
This is his 40th year in prison, but Willie isn’t giving up. “My hope is to get out of here, settle down with a woman and do God’s will.”
We thank you for your support.
Website: https://justiceforwilliesimmons.org/
Twitter: Justice for Willie Simmons https://twitter.com/carlsonnewman?s=21
Petition: https://www.change.org/p/alabama-governor-kay-ivey-willie-simmons-has-served-38-years-for-a-9-robbery
