REDEMPTION is an inmate support service established for the purpose of providing funding for DNA testing to those convicted of criminal offenses which can undoubtedly be overturned with the use of such testing.
REDEMPTION will operate as an inmate outreach program, under the umbrella of Visions Christian Outreach Ministries, Inc.
Visions Christian Outreach Ministries, Inc. is an incorporated entity in the State of Maryland and is currently seeking 501(c)3 status per the IRC.
Bernard Webster and the Illinois four, are just a few of the recent examples of why a program such as REDEMPTION Is necessary.
Sources: NBC Nightly News & The Washington Post, January 12, 2003
We belive that these few incidents are not isolated, but that they represent one of the most egregious ideologies within the justice system.
The organizational plan of this program is to coordinate with University law school departments whose students are required to study and research inmate cases to determine if DNA could be the deciding factor for overturning convictions. Once the selected cases have been thoroughly researched and it is found that DNA testing could provide evidence of innocence, Redemption will then provide the funding, in full or in part, for the DNA testing. These tests, depending on the type that is required, can range from $250 - $1,000 (according to the information obtained from DNA Testing Solutions).
The organizational plan also includes the coordination of partnerships with other inmate support and assistance groups whose mission it is to help these 'newly freed' individuals become active and productive members of the society.
Objectives:
1. to coordinate partnerships with law school departments
2. to provide funding for inmate DNA testing (only where this test can provide needed evidence to overturn a conviction)
3. to coordinate partnerships with inmate support and assistance groups that help these inmates return to productive lives in society
