Injustice in 1930: The Case of Alexander McClay Williams and the Fight for Justice 91 Years Later

In a shocking turn of events, 91 years after his execution, Alexander McClay Williams has been posthumously exonerated for the murder of his teacher in 1930. Williams, a 16-year-old Black boy, was sentenced to death in Pennsylvania in 1931 based on coerced confessions and racial profiling.

Williams’ family and legal representatives were able to prove his innocence, leading to all charges against him being dismissed. Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer acknowledged that Williams was unfairly pressured into confessing and was denied the chance to appeal before his execution.

Now, the Williams family is seeking justice by filing a lawsuit against Delaware County and the estates of the detectives and prosecutors involved in the case. They claim that their actions were malicious and intentionally harmful, seeking compensatory and punitive damages for the wrongful conviction.

The case highlights the systemic racism and injustice that plagued the legal system in the early 20th century, with Williams being convicted based on flimsy evidence and coerced confessions. The family’s fight for justice serves as a reminder of the importance of holding those responsible for wrongful convictions and racial profiling accountable.

As the Williams family continues their quest for justice, the story of Alexander McClay Williams serves as a stark reminder of the impact of racial bias and the importance of fighting for truth and accountability in the legal system.