Pervis Payne

The Injustice of Death Row: The Profound Tragedy of Marcellus Williams and the Fight to Save Robert Roberson

The Injustice of Death Row: The Profound Tragedy of Marcellus Williams and the Fight to Save Robert Roberson

From the wrongful execution of Marcellus Williams to the looming threat over Robert Roberson, systemic biases and failures are sending innocent people to death row.

10.09.24 by Alyxaundria Sanford

Justice Delayed Is Democracy Denied

Justice Delayed Is Democracy Denied

This election year, it is important that our votes be guided by a thorough awareness of political candidates' stances on criminal legal system reform.

Op-Ed 01.30.24 by Christina Swarns

Innocence Project’s Best Moments of 2022

Innocence Project’s Best Moments of 2022

As countless people remain behind bars, we reflect on the most uplifting moments of the year

12.06.22 by Alicia Maule

Innocence Project Wins Clarence B. Jones Impact Award for Digital Advocacy Campaign to Stop Pervis Payne’s Execution

Innocence Project Wins Clarence B. Jones Impact Award for Digital Advocacy Campaign to Stop Pervis Payne’s Execution

The award recognizes innovative and impactful communications efforts that have helped drive social change.  

10.14.22 by Innocence Staff

Breaking News: Pervis Payne Eligible for Parole in Five Years

Breaking News: Pervis Payne Eligible for Parole in Five Years

“The Judge considered this matter thoughtfully and deliberately and did the right thing."

01.31.22 by Innocence Staff

19 Most Compelling Remarks from Pervis Payne’s Resentencing Hearing

19 Most Compelling Remarks from Pervis Payne’s Resentencing Hearing

A judge will rule whether Mr. Payne will serve consecutive or concurrent life sentences

12.13.21 by Alicia Maule

Pervis Payne Is Removed From Death Row After Three Decades

Pervis Payne Is Removed From Death Row After Three Decades

Mr. Payne’s family said they are “so grateful,” although he will not be freed at this time

11.23.21 by Daniele Selby

Pervis Payne Will Not Be Executed; DA Concedes He is a Person with Intellectual Disability

Pervis Payne Will Not Be Executed; DA Concedes He is a Person with Intellectual Disability

Today, the Shelby County District Attorney conceded that Pervis Payne is a person with an intellectual disability.

11.18.21 by Innocence Staff

From Memphis to Martha’s Vineyard, Powerful Photos of This Week’s Pervis Payne Rallies

From Memphis to Martha’s Vineyard, Powerful Photos of This Week’s Pervis Payne Rallies

Supporters of Pervis Payne’s fight for justice took to the streets in cities across the U.S.

09.10.21 by Alicia Maule

Ida B. Wells' Anti-Lynching Legacy Inspires the Continued Fight for Justice for Pervis Payne

Ida B. Wells' Anti-Lynching Legacy Inspires the Continued Fight for Justice for Pervis Payne

Pervis Payne was sentenced to death in Shelby County, the same place Ida B. Wells fled threats of lynching 130 years ago

07.19.21 by Innocence Staff

The Death Penalty Disproportionately Hurts People of Color With Intellectual Disabilities, Like Pervis Payne

The Death Penalty Disproportionately Hurts People of Color With Intellectual Disabilities, Like Pervis Payne

Mr. Payne has spent 33 years on death row for a crime he has always maintained he didnu0027t commit.

07.14.21 by Christina Swarns

Attorneys for Pervis Payne File Petition to Present His Intellectual Disability Claim in Court

Attorneys for Pervis Payne File Petition to Present His Intellectual Disability Claim in Court

05.12.21 by Innocence Staff