Yesterday the community working toward a fair and just criminal justice system received powerful news out of Alabama: Governor Kay Ivey granted clemency to Charles “Sonny” Burton.

Sonny’s case drew national attention in recent weeks, in part because it reflects many of the injustices we see in felony murder prosecutions: cases where people can face extreme punishment, even death, without having intended or directly caused a killing. For many of us working to end felony murder laws and limit their harms, this case felt painfully familiar.

In a statement regarding Governor Ivey’s decision to grant mercy and commute his sentence to life without parole, Burton said, “She has proven to the people of Alabama, and the world, that she is a responsible Governor. And I thank her. Just saying thank you doesn’t seem like much. But it’s what I can give her. And I do thank her. Thank you, Governor.”

This outcome is the result of tremendous organizing, advocacy, and prayer from people across the country. Faith leaders, organizers, attorneys, impacted families, and community members mobilized quickly to bring attention to Sonny’s case and urge mercy.

We want to extend our deep thanks to Governor Ivey and everyone in this community who spoke out, shared information, joined calls, and helped amplify the message. Moments like this remind us how powerful collective action can be.

While clemency cannot erase the years Sonny and his loved ones have endured under the threat of execution, it means that his life will not be taken by the state today. Instead, his sentence has been commuted to life without parole. It is a moment of relief, and a reminder of why the work to challenge extreme felony murder punishment is so urgent.

Thank you for continuing to stand with us in this fight. Your advocacy does matter, and news like this proves it time and again.