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Group Grants New Possible Release Date For Deaf Inmate

Pat Bliss
/
deafinprison.wordpress.com

Advocates for a deaf man serving a life sentence for murder are pleased with a decision by the state parole commission to reduce his possible parole date by a year.

They claim Felix Garcia was framed by his brother and sister. But another brother--Mark Garcia--says he’s been told Felix is guilty.

“That’s what I heard over the years. I wasn’t there, I can’t tell you. It’s all hearsay. I know my brothers and that’s it. I know what happened in my heart. I know what the case is," Garcia said when asked whether he believes Felix is guilty.

"Felix can tell you whatever he wants. Frankie can tell you whatever they wants. It’s their decision."

Mark Garcia says he believes his other brother, Francisco Garcia, is the innocent one, but adds both brothers participated in the murder.  Francisco was also convicted of second-degree murder his part the crime. Mark and his sister appeared on Francisco’s behalf, but the Florida Commission on Offender review decided against changing Franciso’s possible release date. Once commissioner says she doesn't believe Francisco is credible.

Follow @HatterLynn

Lynn Hatter is a Florida A&M University and Florida State University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master's in Professional Communication. Lynn has been with WFSU since 2007 with education and health care issues as her key coverage areas.  She has worked with several organizations, including Kaiser Health News.  Lynn has also partnered with USC-Annenberg's Center for Child Wellbeing on the nationally acclaimed series "Committed," which explored the prevalence of involuntary commitment use on children.
She serves on the board of RTDNA and the United Way of the Big Bend, with previous service on the board of the First Amendment Foundation of Florida.

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