Episodes

  • Marwin Battles Interview

    Marwin Battles Interview
    Nov 20 2024
    In this powerful episode of Voiceless Behind Bars, host Sarah DeArmond sits down with Marwin Battles, who has spent over 33 years behind bars for a crime rooted in self-defense.

    Wrongfully convicted in 1991, Marwin’s story highlights profound racial injustices and legal missteps that have kept him incarcerated.From the racially charged events that led to the tragic altercation at the Bay Port Apartments in Norman, Oklahoma, to the court's denial of a self-defense instruction and evidence of racial bias, Marwin's case raises serious questions about fairness and equality in the justice system.Despite the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals modifying his sentence to life with the possibility of parole, errors in court documents have wrongly labeled his sentence as life without parole, delaying his chances for release.

    Learn how Marwin’s case has gained national attention and why advocates are calling for his release.Marwin has not only fought for justice but also used his time in prison to create meaningful change. His nonprofit, the Allinone Project, supports aging inmates and juvenile offenders, aiming to advance prison reform, re-entry programs, and housing solutions.

    💡 Take Action
    • Write to the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board at boardcommunications@ppb.ok.gov and urge them to allow Marwin Battles to advance to the next stage of parole eligibility.
    • Learn more about Oklahoma’s Pardon and Parole process in the FAQ document.
    📨 Contact the Allinone Project
    102 South 2nd Street
    Eufaula, Oklahoma 74432

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about justice reform and the fight against racial inequities. Don’t miss Marwin’s moving story of resilience and hope.
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Elizabeth Anderson Interview

    Elizabeth Anderson Interview
    Nov 3 2024
    In this powerful episode of Voiceless Behind Bars, Sarah sits down with Elizabeth Anderson to discuss her campaign and the issues closest to her heart. Elizabeth, a passionate advocate for justice reform, sheds light on her vision for a fairer system and shares personal insights on the changes she wants to bring to Congress. Tune in as Sarah and Elizabeth explore topics including criminal justice reform, prison conditions, and Elizabeth’s commitment to amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard.

    🌟 Follow Elizabeth Anderson's Journey:
    • Facebook: Elizabeth Anderson for Congress
    • Official Website: Elizabeth Anderson for Congress
    🔗 Elizabeth’s website offers a detailed look into her campaign platform, including initiatives on equitable sentencing, rehabilitation opportunities, and her stance on important legislative reforms. Don't miss this episode for an inspiring conversation with someone who’s determined to make a difference!
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    59 mins
  • Melissa Ann Interview - Andy McCauley Jr.

    Melissa Ann Interview - Andy McCauley Jr.
    Oct 8 2024
    In this impactful episode, Sarah sits down with her good friend Melissa Ann, a dedicated advocate fighting for justice for Andy McCauley Jr. In this conversation, Melissa Ann shares updates on Andy’s case, including the critical upcoming Oral Arguments Hearing happening this Wednesday. Together, they dive into the fight to get crucial DNA evidence tested, which could play a significant role in Andy's case.

    You can support Andy by sending a polite fax to Honorable Judge Deborah McLaughlin, requesting DNA testing. Simply use GotFreeFax.com to send up to three free faxes per day to 304-558-1212.For more updates and to stay involved, follow these official accounts and resources:
    • Melissa Ann on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Justicelynmelisa
    • Official Andy McCauley Jr. Facebook Page: facebook.com/OfficialAndyMcCauleyJr
    • Instagram: @officialandymccauleyjr
    • Support Site: FreeAndyMcCauleyJr.com
    Don't miss this episode for a closer look at the efforts to secure justice for Andy McCauley Jr., and learn how you can be part of the movement!
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    37 mins
  • Monika Shepard

    Monika Shepard
    Sep 26 2024
    In this powerful episode of Voiceless Behind Bars, Sarah DeArmond sits down with Monika Shepard, the dedicated advocate fighting for justice on behalf of Matthew Dorsey.

    Matthew, sentenced to life in prison after a non-violent traffic stop, represents a troubling case of the flaws within our justice system. With no appeals left, his story highlights the devastating consequences of legal misrepresentation and an unforgiving system.Monika Shepard shares crucial updates on the advocacy efforts aimed at reducing Matthew’s sentence, including the importance of reaching out to key political figures such as Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Senator Bryan Hughes, and Representative Cole Hefner. Monika emphasizes the need for public support and civic engagement, urging listeners to get involved by contacting these officials and checking their voter registration status, especially in states like Alabama where voter rolls have been purged.

    Tune in to hear Matthew’s harrowing story, learn how you can help, and find out more about the steps being taken to bring him home. This episode is a call to action for anyone who believes in justice and the power of collective advocacy. Don't miss Sarah's compelling interview with Monika Shepard as they explore what it takes to fight for those who have been silenced by the system.Key Links:
    • Contact the Texas Governor's Office
    • Senator Bryan Hughes, Smith County, District 1
    • Representative Cole Hefner, District 5
    • District Attorney Jacob Putman, Smith County
    • Senator Phil King, Parker County, District 10
    • House Representative Kay Granger, District 12, Parker County
    • Check your voter registration status and register to vote: Rock the Vote
    • Learn if you can restore your voting rights: Restore Your Vote
    • Follow Matthew Dorsey’s story on TikTok and Facebook
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    32 mins
  • Christian Coleman Interview

    Christian Coleman Interview
    Sep 24 2024
    In this episode of Voiceless Behind Bars, host Sarah and Christian Coleman discuss the importance of advocacy, both inside and outside the prison system, and the role we all play in pushing for justice reform. Christian’s story highlights how crucial it is for everyone to stay involved in the democratic process.

    Sarah encourages listeners to check their voter registration and participate in local elections, especially as voter rights continue to face challenges in states across the country. There have been instances where individuals, even those with Legal Immigration Cards or U.S. citizenship, have had their voter status removed.

    It’s more important than ever to ensure your registration is up to date.Tune in for this insightful conversation and learn how you can be a voice for the voiceless.

    Important links mentioned:
    • Learn more about Elizabeth Anderson (District 6): Elizabeth Anderson Campaign
    • Elizabeth Anderson’s Facebook: Elizabeth Anderson for Congress
    • Register to vote or check your status: Rock the Vote
    Don’t miss this episode and remember: your vote matters!
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    36 mins
  • Matthew Dorsey

    Matthew Dorsey
    Sep 19 2024
    In this episode of Voiceless Behind Bars, Sarah dives into the case of Matthew Dorsey, a man who was sentenced to life in prison for fleeing from police during a traffic stop—despite no injuries or violence.

    With no appeals left, Matthew's story is a striking example of the flaws in the justice system, where even his own lawyer worked against him, and police testimony confirmed that there was no intent to harm.Sarah will also be speaking with Monika Shepard, Matthew’s head advocate, who has compiled a list of the key figures to contact in the push for a sentence reduction.

    Monika points out the importance of contacting state Senator Bryan Hughes of Smith County and Texas Senator John Coryn, both pivotal in advocating for justice in Matthew's case.Throughout the episode, Sarah emphasizes the importance of civic engagement, encouraging listeners to check their voter registration status—especially in states like Alabama, where voter rolls have been purged without notice.

    Listen in as Sarah sheds light on Matthew’s shocking case and what can be done to help reduce his sentence. Make sure to stay tuned for Sarah’s upcoming interview with Monika Shepard, where they'll discuss the advocacy efforts to bring Matthew home.Links mentioned:
    • Contact Senator Bryan Hughes: Senate Texas District 1
    • Contact House Representative District 5 Cole Hefner: Texas House
    • Contact District Attorney Jacob Putman: Smith County
    • Contact Senator Phil King of Parker County: Texas Senate
    • Contact House Representative District 12 Kay Granger: Kay Granger
    • Register to vote: Rock the Vote
    Tune in to hear Matthew’s story and learn how you can make a difference!
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    38 mins
  • Ramiro Russell

    Ramiro Russell
    Sep 17 2024
    In this compelling episode of Voiceless Behind Bars, Sarah sits down with celebrity trainer and martial arts instructor Ramiro Russell for an inspiring and deeply personal interview. Ramiro opens up about his journey, not only as a fitness expert and public speaker but also as a survivor of domestic abuse. He bravely shares the story of how his abuser set him up, leading to his wrongful imprisonment—a topic that resonates deeply with the mission of this podcast.

    Ramiro discusses how he overcame these struggles and now uses his platform to help others, proving that our situations don't define us—we define our situations. From his work training NBA players to his ongoing efforts as a corporate wellness speaker and anti-bullying advocate, his story is one of resilience and transformation.

    Please note, there is a brief mention of his anti-vaxx stance during the conversation. While Sarah respects diverse viewpoints, she encourages all listeners to get vaccinated and adds a trigger warning at the start of the episode for this reason.

    You can find various ways to support Ramiro and follow his journey through his social media: allmylinks.com/r2facts.

    Additionally, we offer valuable resources on domestic violence prevention and support, especially for male and LGBTQ+ survivors:
    • National Domestic Violence Hotline
    • Turning Points Network: Love Shouldn't Hurt
    • Help for Male Victims of Abuse
    • LGBTQ+ Domestic Violence Support
    Thank you for tuning in to this powerful and heartfelt episode. Together, we continue to advocate for justice and healing.
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Jerome Harris

    Jerome Harris
    Sep 12 2024
    In this episode of Voiceless Behind Bars, host Sarah is once again joined by returning guest Jesse Dreyfuse to dive into the case of Jerome Harris. They explore the challenges Jerome is facing, particularly his difficulty reaching his lawyer, Attorney Dalhenburg, to discuss his pending litigations. If you would like to support Jerome, please consider emailing Attorney Dalhenburg at attyred@gmail.com, and politely request that he return Jerome’s phone calls so they can move forward with his legal matters.As always, we also provide updates on other wrongful conviction cases and ongoing advocacy efforts. Stay connected and informed by following Sarah on social media:
    • Instagram: itssarahonly
    • Threads: itssarahonly
    • TikTok: itssarahonly
    Thank you for tuning in and for your continued support of the fight for justice. Together, we are making a difference!
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    26 mins