In 2002, Anthony Faltz was the backseat passenger in a vehicle that hit another car, killing the two occupants. Anthony was not the driver, and at least five police officers on the scene confirmed that another man – not Anthony – exited the car from the driver’s seat. Nonetheless, poorly analyzed DNA evidence by the Government led Anthony to be charged as the driver. Anthony’s trial attorney spoke to no witnesses, subpoenaed no documents, and consulted no experts, relying simply on the Government’s representations that this was an unwinnable case. He told Anthony to plead guilty, incorrectly telling him that he would receive a much shorter sentence than he did. So, in 2006 Anthony pled guilty to involuntary manslaughter while maintaining that he was not driving the car. MAIP has been working on Anthony’s case since late 2015 using DNA testing and accident reconstruction experts to prove that Anthony was not the driver.
What do you remember about the day you were convicted?
I was all ready to go to trial. I knew I hadn’t done what they had accused me of doing. All of a sudden my attorney told me to plead guilty. I was surprised, but I was young and didn’t know what was going on, so I did what he told me.
What was your first day in prison like?
A blur.
What is a typical day like for you in prison?
I’ve been taking classes [through a partnership with Howard University]. I just completed one called “Inside/Outside,” which is designed for guys getting released; talking about how to keep from getting mixed up in something that will land you back in prison. I also work with a case manager, helping with office work.
How often do you see/talk to your family? What are the best/worst things about visits?
I get to see my mom once or twice each month. She lives out in Maryland, but there’s a program that helps her travel to and from DC so she can come visit. I love getting to visit with my family, and it’s hard each time they have to leave. One of the toughest things about being here is not getting to see my family every day, my nieces and nephews growing up.
What do you miss the most?
I miss my family. I miss the mentoring program I was a part of. I miss being a cook at the Macaroni Grill.
What are Thanksgiving and Christmas like in prison?
Stressful. They don’t do anything to make it special. You know in your head that it’s supposed to be something special, but it’s just not like that in prison and it messes with you.
Anything you’ve learned from being in prison?
Patience.
What helps you get through on a daily basis and overall?
My cellmate. He’s become a good friend.
Favorites: books, movies, TV, sports teams, music, hobbies (in or out)?
I read everything I can get my hands on. Currently reading “The New Jim Crow” and “Fire & Fury.”
When is your birthday?
April 15.
What’s the first thing you want to eat if you get out?
Steak and lobster.
If you could tell people who are reading this one thing, what would it be?
Don’t judge a book by its cover.
Help free Anthony here.