Letter to the Editor

November 14, 2005

Dear Editor and the People of Mississippi,

I am writing in reference to the upcoming (December 13, 2005) MS Court of Appeals ruling on the Tyler Edmonds case. I appeal to the people of Mississippi to look into this matter. This case is a miscarriage of justice!!! Tyler was tried as an adult at the age of 13 and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole until age 65!!! This sentence is cruel and inhumane!!! He has no previous criminal history and a record as a good kid with absolutely no history of violence. Tyler was coerced by his older half-sister (Kristi Fulgham-26 at the crime date) to make false confessions saving her from potential capital punishment for a crime she committed (murdering her husband in cold blood). Tyler had only wanted to see his Father during the weekend he spent with her in May, 2003. He had complete trust, love, and faith in this woman.

Tyler had no comprehension of the Mississippi legal system or a full understanding of his Miranda Rights when he made his confessions. He was not allowed a false confession expert witness during his trial. However, the prosecution was allowed the testimony of a pathologist who gave an inaccurate and baseless opinion regarding how the crime weapon was fired. The actual weapon was never found or presented during the trial. There was no physical evidence to show he was involved in this murder. Further, Tyler had neither the motivation nor the capacity at 13 years old to carry out this heinous crime.

I raise my voice and beseech the People of Mississippi to take another look at this case. Please raise your voice to the leaders of this state to right the wrong done to this child!!!

Matt Meleen
Austin, TX