October 18, 2007

Hi Everyone,

As I mentioned in my last email to you Michael, and I met with a Private Investigator, John Nardizzi last Wednesday, October 10, 2007; we were both very impressed with him, and his credentials and experience. He does work with the Innocence Project and has done investigative work for the wrongfully convicted. John was recommended to Michael by the New England Innocence Project (NEIP) who has taken on Michael case on a pro bono basis. I also checked John's credentials with Scott Hornoff, who was exonerated in 2002 for a murder he did not commit, and was one of the eight wrongfully convicted men portrayed in the movie "After Innocence". Scott summed up his comments regarding John by saying "He is very good at what he does."

So based on John's experience, credentials, and references we have decided to hire him to do investigative work on Michael's case.  We hope John may be able to turn up something that will result in a new trial and eventual freedom for Michael. John's services do not come free and that is the purpose of this email.

I have worked on Michael's case for five years. During this time I have grown to know Michael and respect him as a person; I have no doubt of his innocence. When the Appellate Court of Massachusetts overturned Michael's conviction that further drove home my faith in his innocence. With NEIP taking on Michael's case that was the icing on the cake. The Innocence Projects only take on cases they are most certain of innocence; it is very, very difficult to be taken on by the Innocence Project; many apply but few are chosen.

While working on Michael’s case I have also become involved with the wrongfully convicted movement in this country. One of the things that stand out about the wrongfully convicted is that most of them are indigent and have no money. As a result they get inadequate defense and are prime candidates to be wrongfully convicted. Once convicted it is almost impossible to overturn their wrongful conviction especially if there is no money to provide for good lawyers, expert witnesses, investigators and forensic science. Michael has been fortunate in that he has a good appellate lawyer and has the NEIP fighting for his cause, but sadly this is not enough. Money is needed to hire private investigators and to provide funds for any DNA evidence that may be gathered to be tested.

Prior to this email I have never asked you for money. I have asked for your prayers and support and you have been terrific at responding. I have asked you to remember Michael on his birthday and holidays by sending cards, letters, gifts and signing his guest book; once again you have responded lovingly from your heart. Now I need to ask for your help to provide contributions to help fund Michael's defense fund. We need to raise a significant amount of money (i.e. $20,000.00). All donations will be appreciated no matter the amount. However, I am asking that those of you that are able and willing please consider a larger donation. I know this may be a sacrifice to some, and I honor that. For those of you that can contribute I will be deeply grateful as will Michael and his family. I will gladly answer any questions you may have regarding the funding for Michael's defense.

Michael has written a message that I encourage you to read: Michael's message for contributions

Please make contributions payable to: Advocates for Wrongfully Convicted and send to:

Advocates for Wrongfully Convicted

2020 S. Flying Heart Lane

Tucson, AZ 85713-7309

I thank each and every one of you for your kindness and support of Michael; I hope you will continue to support and fight for him until we see him walk through the gates of prison a free man.

Thank you and God bless you.

Dick

Dick's request for contributions