This is Mikal
The State of South Carolina plans to execute him for murders committed when he was only 21, after enduring years of abuse and trauma as a child.
The State of South Carolina plans to execute him for murders committed when he was only 21, after enduring years of abuse and trauma as a child.
Mikal Mahdi, a 14-year-old boy, was struggling with despair and thoughts of suicide.
Mikal needed mental health care. Instead, he was sent to juvenile prison.
While most teenagers were playing sports, going to school, and hanging out with their friends, Mikal was locked away in solitary confinement.
When he was only 21, Mikal’s unthinkable childhood culminated in two tragic murders.
At trial, Mikal’s lawyers failed him. The testimony explaining his tragic life lasted less than 30 minutes.
Now, the State of South Carolina wants to execute Mikal.
Mikal Mahdi is a smart, creative, intellectually curious person who could have done so much more with his life. He just never got the chance. And everyone deserves a chance.

WATCH THIS 3-MINUTE VIDEO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIKAL'S STORY.
through the timeline of major events in his life:
In 2004, at age 21, Mikal committed the tragic murders of Captain James Myers and Christopher Boggs.
Today, as an adult, Mikal is remorseful and accepts responsibility for his actions.


Mikal doesn’t have to be executed
People are speaking up for Mikal
People who love and support Mikal know the murders he committed were horrible and inexcusable.
Their hearts go out to the families of the victims. They also know that Mikal is more than those tragic decisions.

"Mikal was only with his mother for a few years. He wasn’t old enough to remember any of her love or nurturing. After she left, Mikal was stranded with his dad, who was unstable, unwell, and had way too many problems of his own to give Mikal the care and guidance he needed. Mikal endured more than any child should have to."

"I’m so sorry for everyone in this situation, especially the people Mikal killed and their families. But this doesn’t have to end with Mikal’s execution. I know there’s good in him. I saw it when he was a boy. If Mikal is allowed to live, I truly believe he can and will become a better person."
Mikal Mahdi should serve a life without parole sentence instead of being put to death.
Children should not be mistreated by the State and then executed by the State.
Resources
Learn more about Mikal’s case.