In New York State, a person can be convicted of Felony Murder even if they did not commit—or intend to commit—a murder. Simply being present at the scene of a crime where a death occurs can result in a life-altering conviction. This law overwhelmingly impacts Black, Brown, low-income, and system-impacted individuals, often punishing those least responsible for a death more harshly than the actual perpetrator.

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We are working to

HUMANIZE the impact of this law through personal stories.

BUILD political pressure to repeal or revise the law.

EDUCATE the public and policymakers on its disproportionate and unjust application.

CREATE space for healing and power for impacted individuals and their loved ones.

Recent Podcasts: Breaking Down the Injustice Behind Felony Murder Law

Catskill Radio WJFF-90.5FM

Prisoners’ Brain Trust is Working to Repeal New York’s Felony Murder Law and Rethink Incarceration

“An Enduring Struggle for Justice” 08-03-2025

Alisha Kohn, Prisoners’ Brain Trust- Focuses on the Rights of Inmates

Each person in this campaign represents a deeper truth about the felony murder law and why it must be abolished. Their stories expose the moral and legal failings of a system that prioritizes conviction rates over justice.

Meet the Faces Behind the Law

Paris Whitefield

A founding member of the Prisoners’ Brain Trust and longtime prison educator, Eric was sentenced under the felony murder statute at age 21. Although he did not cause the death involved in his case, he was convicted and given a life sentence. Now decades into his incarceration, Eric is a respected leader, mentor, and curriculum developer inside New York State prisons. His story speaks to the way felony murder charges erase nuance, deny rehabilitation, and strip individuals of fair accountability. Eric continues to educate, organize, and write in pursuit of a justice system rooted in truth and equity. 

Petition for Clemency

John Giuca

Convicted without physical evidence, based on recanted testimony and prosecutorial misconduct. John’s case has become one of the most well-known examples of a wrongful conviction rooted in the abuse of felony murder charges.

Petition for Clemency

Bryan Panarella

A young man who took accountability for his role in a robbery but did not commit the murder. Despite another person admitting to the killing, Bryan was charged with murder under the law. Today, he is a college student, spiritual leader, and dedicated to transformation.

Petition for Clemency

Devin Giordano

Convicted under the felony murder law despite no intent or action to commit the crime. His story highlights the criminalization of youth, mental health struggles, and coerced plea deals.

Petition For Clemency