Remarks of Anthony Graves, Founder, Anthony Believes

Summary

Anthony, an exonerated death-row inmate, shares his harrowing 18-year experience in solitary confinement. He describes the inhumane conditions—deprivation of human contact, substandard food, lack of medical care, and the psychological toll isolation took on him and others. He witnessed fellow inmates suffer severe mental breakdowns, commit suicide, and self-harm due to the intolerable conditions. Anthony highlights the lasting emotional damage, his struggle to adjust after release, and calls attention to the criminal justice system's cruelty, which dehumanizes not just prisoners but their families as well.

The video is abnormal, and we are working hard to fix it.
Please replace the link and try again.

Q & A

What was Anthony's conviction status?

Anthony was wrongfully convicted and sentenced to death in Texas in 1992.

What conditions did Anthony experience on death row?

Anthony experienced solitary confinement, poor food quality, and a lack of basic human dignity.

How did the living conditions affect Anthony's physical health?

Anthony lived in a small 8 by 12 foot cage with a thin plastic mattress and pillow, leading to back problems.

What was the sleeping arrangement like for Anthony?

Anthony had to sleep on a steel bunk bed with a thin plastic mattress and pillow that could only be changed once a year.

What kind of psychological effects did Anthony experience due to isolation?

Anthony experienced sleep deprivation, hallucinations, and feelings of extreme loneliness.

What was the quality of food provided to Anthony?

The food was often dehydrated or contaminated with rat feces or broken glass.

How did Anthony describe the medical care on death row?

Anthony described the medical care as non-existent, with no proper attention to health issues.

What was Anthony's daily routine like in terms of human interaction?

Anthony had no physical contact with other humans and very limited communication through a slot in his cell door.

What were the consequences of solitary confinement on Anthony's mental state?

Anthony developed mood swings, emotional breakdowns, and had difficulty adjusting to being around people after his release.

How did Anthony's experience affect his family?

Anthony's experience had a ripple effect on his family, including his mother, siblings, and children.

What was Anthony's opinion on the use of solitary confinement?

Anthony believes that solitary confinement is inhumane, dehumanizing, and should be reformed.