My name is Ricky Breeze Moorefield. I’m writing this letter because I filed for commutation in March of 2021. It should be coming up soon, and seek support in my endeavor. A synopsis of what bring us to this point goes as follows. In 1996, at the age of 17, in the neighborhood of Homewood, I was placed in an uncomfortable situation, and my irrational and impulsive understanding allowed me to take another person’s life. I was charged then, and in 2000, convicted of first degree murder. In 2012, a case, Miller [Miller v. Alabama], came out making it unconstitutional to give people under the age of 18 mandatory life sentences.
In 2016, another case, Montgomery [Montgomery v. Louisiana], came out making the earlier decision retroactive. Allegheny County District Attorney Zappala immediately made a statement that said, “While I am not seeking a life sentence for anyone, I am seeking at least 35 for everyone.” In 2018, I went and was resentenced by Judge Beth Ann Lazzara to a term of 40 years to life. While I am grateful to have an opportunity at release, no matter how remote, there are a few things that went awry in that hearing. There was information utilized that had no foundation, as witnessed by the statement of ADA Rusheen Pettit. “It is also important and relevant to consider the testimony that was given today in the exhibits that were presented involving things that, for whatever reason, did not qualify as misconducts, but resulted in the separation order and transfer order of Mr. Moorefield.” There was a psych report done from an outside source who had done one other psych report of an incarcerated individual. The results were totally contrary to any I have ever received here, and my record of incarceration does not support the character findings.
His statement was: “Historical factors show there is no way a person with his upbringing and background could possibly be the person he portrays. The answers he gave were too guarded to come to an accurate conclusion. Mr. Moorfield attempted to portray himself in an unreasonably positive light.” I’ve had one misconduct since 2004. I am a student, teacher, and mentor. I’m a certified mason, roofer, carpenter, and flagger. I am OSHA and green environment trained. I have completed every group required of me and volunteered for many more. I volunteer for recreational interaction with the mentally challenged at the institution; teach music theory and keyboard. I’m the sound engineer for outside bands that come to the facility. I am on the executive board of the MA organization, the Journey for Change, and was the orator for the MA General Welfare Fund for years until I came to the Honor Unit, where I’ve remained since 2019. I’ve taken business courses, the sociology course with Duquesne University, and many other character development courses. I am currently represented by Penn State Associate Professor of Clinical Law, Gopal Balachandran in my commutation process.
I’m asking for support in being given the opportunities to utilize the experience, knowledge, and understanding I have obtained in my quarter century of incarceration. When these cases came out, Miller and Montgomery, individuals from Philadelphia have been released with anywhere from 20 years in and up. Their DA Krasner stated, “If after 15 years of incarceration they are no longer a threat to society, I see no reason to hold them.” The people, in the hundreds, who have been released are thriving. Chester County gave their juveniles time served and allowed them to see the parole board, wherever they were in their sentences. Lastly, the statement of Judge Beth Ann Lazzara in her closing shows the unnecessary nature of this sentence. “Sir, I certainly hope that you will continue with what you have been doing in the state prison system, so that at the point that you become eligible for parole, that you are able to provide parole officials with good documentation that there has been some change. Good luck to you, sir.”
Based solely on geographics, I remain incarcerated with October 10, 2038 being my earliest opportunity at release, at the age of 58. My goals are to be a youth mentor upon release and I am working towards that end through different organizations. I am an asset to the community and have an understanding that life is about being a pillar of family and community, an example for those led astray in need of strength to stand upright. I end this letter thankful for your time and consideration in this matter. Also hoping to open some doors of communication for the future, at the very least. Sincerely, Ricky Breeze Moorfield.
These commentaries are recorded by Prison Radio.
