In 1976, Williams’ life changed when he was wrongfully convicted of actor Sal Mineo’s murder. The system failed him. Unseen Innocence sheds light on the truth.
Lionel Raymond Williams is more than a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend—a man whose life story is a profound testament to resilience and the relentless pursuit of justice. Born on November 19, 1956, in Los Angeles, Williams’ life was forever changed in 1976 when he was wrongfully convicted of the murder of actor Sal Mineo and accused of ten unsolved armed robberies. Despite maintaining his innocence, the justice system failed him, and he was sentenced to life in prison for a crime he did not commit.
Williams’ tragic journey through a flawed legal system is captured in his riveting memoir, “51 Years to Life. ” “I share my account of the investigation, trial, and media frenzy that painted me guilty long before the trial even began,” said Williams. “My story is full of the racial biases, procedural missteps, and systemic injustices that contributed to my wrongful conviction.” This experience shaped his life’s mission and determination to clear his name.…