UPDATED September 20, 2024
Matthew Dorsey is serving a life sentence for aggravated assault following a high-speed chase with law enforcement. This case has drawn significant attention from the prisoner advocacy group Pathways to Freedom, which argues that the sentence is unjust and disproportionate, especially considering that no one was injured during the incident. They assert that the life sentence is outrageous because it doesn't fit the crime of evading authorities.
Matthew Dorsey was involved in a police pursuit in Smith County, Texas. The trooper testified that Matthew did not swerve to hit him or attempt to run him down. Despite there being no injuries reported from the incident, Matthew was convicted of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, along with charges of delivery of a controlled substance and evading arrest or detention. According to trial testimony, Matthew's vehicle never came into contact with a police vehicle.
During the trial, there was confusion regarding the identity of the driver involved in the chase. Initially, another individual, Juan Daniel Dawson Vincent, was suspected but later ruled out due to a confirmed alibi.
Matthew Dorsey pleaded guilty to the charges during the trial, after letters he wrote were presented in court, suggesting his involvement as the driver. He was sentenced to life imprisonment for the aggravated assault charge, 20 years for the delivery of a controlled substance, and 2 years for evading arrest. In March 2009, the Texas Court of Appeals denied Matthew's appeal, which challenged the admission of certain evidence and trial procedures. The court overruled these appeals due to procedural issues, including the lack of objections raised during the trial by his legal representation. Matthew has now served 18 years in prison.
Pathways to Freedom has criticized the performance of Matthew's appeal attorney, arguing that the lawyer failed to challenge the severity of the sentence effectively or preserve key issues for appeal. The group contends that this oversight has resulted in Matthew's prolonged incarceration for a non-violent offense, highlighting a significant flaw in the legal process. "The life sentence for Matthew Dorsey, given the circumstances, is a gross miscarriage of justice. No one was injured, yet he faces the harshest penalty possible," an advocate at Pathways to Freedom stated.
Pathways to Freedom is actively advocating for Matthew's release, calling on the state to commute his sentence or grant him clemency. The group argues that his continued imprisonment is not only unjust but also a waste of taxpayer resources, particularly when compared to sentences for more severe crimes, such as second-degree murder or manslaughter, which often result in lesser penalties. The advocacy group has organized various efforts to support Matthew, including petitions, rallies, and engaging with the public to highlight the injustice of his sentence. They urge the public to join their efforts in seeking justice for Matthew and reform in the criminal justice system.
Please CLICK HERE to join our effort to free Matthew Dorsey on FacebookUPDATE: After publishing Matthew's article on our platform a prisoner advocacy group Voiceless. Behind Bars has taken an interest in his case. The founder of the group, Sarah Dearmomd, interviewed Matthew on her podcast. Please listen to hear the details from Matthew himself!" Click here to listen to the podcast
The family of Matthew Dorsey has also published a website dedicated to obtaining his freedom. Click here to visit the website.