Following 25 hours of questioning in police custody without a lawyer or parent present, at the age of 17, Jerome Dixon says he was coerced into confessing to a murder he did not commit.
He spent more than two decades in prison before the parole board acknowledged his innocence, and he was released. But instead of being consumed by bitterness, he is spearheading a campaign to ensure all young people are given — and understand — their Miranda rights while under interrogation. He has already influenced new legislation in California to give all those under 18 this fundamental entitlement, and is now taking the fight to Washington DC as he attempts to federalize these laws across the country.
Jerome's story — as told here to Mr Feelgood co-founder John Pearson — is one of fear, injustice, anger, frustration, and deep sadness. But it is also one of patience, self-control, hope, character, endurance, and the presence of grace.