Rob and Michele Reiner connected with Nanon Williams, a man on death row, after learning about his wrongful conviction and advocating for his case.
Evidence Raising Doubts About Conviction
Three years after Williams’ conviction, evidence against him began to deteriorate. In 1998, his lawyer requested testing of the gun used in the crime. The ballistics expert concluded that the bullet came from a different gun.
A juror later stated that this new evidence could have changed her verdict. Despite a judge’s recommendation for a new trial in 2001, Williams remained in prison, awaiting execution.
The Reiners’ Growing Involvement
Williams first contacted Bryonn Bain, a Harvard student who faced wrongful accusations. Inspired by Bain’s story, Williams wrote letters and sent a poem about their parallel lives.
In 2016, after witnessing “Lyrics From Lockdown,” a performance incorporating Williams’ letters, the Reiners reached out to him. Williams initially didn’t know who they were but soon appreciated their genuine interest.
A Network of Support for Freedom
Rob Reiner signed on as an executive producer for “Lyrics From Lockdown,” which showcased Williams’ story across the country. This effort gained significant attention, including from Georgetown professor Marc Howard, who recognized Williams’ potential.
A supportive community formed around Williams, including the Reiners and Howard, advocating for his release. What started with poetry evolved into a movement for justice.
