Jimmy Carter and Mary Prince
Did you know that Jimmy Carter brought an adjudicated murderer into the White House? But it’s not what you think!
Mary Prince’s story is a remarkable testament to the character and compassion of our 39th president, Jimmy Carter. Convicted of murder in April 1970, Mary’s life took a tragic and unexpected turn after a series of events that many could never have foreseen.
It all started at a party where Mary was with her cousin. An altercation broke out between her cousin and another woman in the club’s parking lot. The fight escalated when a gun became involved. Imagine this: you’re enjoying a night out, and suddenly, chaos erupts, leading to a life-altering moment.
Mary stepped outside to investigate the commotion and saw her cousin wrestling with another woman over a gun. In an attempt to defuse the situation, Mary intervened. She grabbed the gun, trying to prevent further violence, but in the struggle, the gun discharged. Tragically, the bullet struck and killed the boyfriend of the woman involved in the altercation.
What followed was devastating. Despite her intentions, Mary was charged with murder. Her defense attorney met her for the first time on the day of her trial, barely prepared and shuffling through case files. He advised Mary to plead guilty to what she thought was involuntary manslaughter. Instead, she unknowingly pleaded guilty to murder and was sentenced to life in prison.
While serving her sentence, Mary participated in a work-release program, and it was here that her life intersected with Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter. The Carters were immediately struck by Mary’s story and her character. Convinced that she had been wrongfully convicted, Jimmy Carter went so far as to apply to be her parole officer.
When Carter became president in 1976, he invited Mary to work in the White House. This move was unprecedented, symbolizing his deep belief in second chances and his commitment to justice. Later, with Carter’s continued support, Mary Prince was granted a full pardon, clearing her name and giving her the opportunity to rebuild her life.
Jimmy Carter’s actions in Mary’s case reflect the extraordinary moral character that defined his life and career. A military veteran, peanut farmer, devoted husband and father, and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Carter was not only a one-term president but also a tireless advocate for human rights and justice reform. His legacy as a “peace monger” and global humanitarian is one that every American can be proud of.