Dak Prescott is working to help a death row inmate get his conviction for murder overturned.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott is a part of a movement along with Baker Mayfield, Russell Westbrook, Blake Griffin, Trae Young, and Buddy Hield with the mission of getting Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt to overturn the murder conviction of Julius Jones. Jones was convicted for the first-degree murder of 45-year-old Paul Howell who was shot in the head on July 28, 1999. At the time of his death, Howell was sitting in a vehicle in the driveway of his parents Edmond, Oklahoma home.
According to ESPN News Services, Jones maintains his innocence in the case and advocates point to racial bias, a flawed investigation, and an ill-equipped defense in explaining why Jones’ conviction should be overturned.
Prescott is using his influence for good
In a letter addressed to the office of Gov. Stitt and the state parole board, Prescott called upon him to use his position of authority to overturn Jones’ conviction. Also, Dak stated that he hopes that the cultural movements of today bring about serious change for African-Americans in society. Prescott stated that he too faces racial injustice every day as an African-American man even with his celebrity status as an athlete.
Dak Prescott pledged $1 million to improve police training and address systemic racism through education and advocacy in the U.S. It’s important to point out also that Oklahoma City Chapter of Black Lives Matter included a commutation with a list of demands that were sent to Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt on June 1.
In July, Oklahoma attorney general Mike Hunter released a summary of trial transcripts that he believes refutes claims of misinformation being given to the public about the case. Hunter stood firm in his belief that Jones is guilty and opposition from celebrities won’t change that. An execution date for Jones has not been set and he has exhausted all of his appeals.