Pray for Justice

Pray for Justice: Tofοrest Johnson

“Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them.” — Hebrews 13:3

Toforest Johnson is a father, son, and brother—born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. He has been imprisoned on Alabama’s death row since 1998 for a crime he did not commit: the 1995 murder of Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy William G. Hardy.

There was no physical evidence linking Toforest to the crime. No eyewitnesses. More than ten people testified that he was across town at the time of the murder.

And yet, a single paid witness—who had never met Toforest—claimed she overheard him confess in a phone call. That payment of $5,000 was not disclosed to Toforest’s defense until nearly twenty years later.

Even the original prosecutor who led the case has since joined the Jefferson County District Attorney, Danny Carr, in calling for a new trial. But still, the State of Alabama continues to pursue his execution.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to pray for the imprisoned, to seek justice, and to stand with those who are forgotten or falsely accused. We invite you to pray for Toforest Johnson, and for all 157 individuals currently on Alabama’s death row. Pray for mercy. Pray for truth. Pray for a justice system that values human dignity over conviction rates.

To learn more about Toforest’s case and how you can help, visit www.toforestjohnson.com.