Montego King Released

Montego King’s Story

In 2005, Montego King was arrested after a self-defense incident in which he fired a gun he found on the floor of an apartment, where he had gone to retrieve a stereo he had loaned. The situation escalated when the occupants began shooting at him, and tragically, a young man was killed. In Forsyth County, where prosecutors were known for pursuing the death penalty in murder cases, Montego faced the very real possibility of a death sentence.

Claudia Whitman, who had been working with Montego, was brought in by the defense team to help him consider a plea rather than risk a trial that could have resulted in execution. With the guidance of his skilled attorney, Duane Bryant, and mitigation specialist Ann Doherty, Montego ultimately accepted a plea, receiving a sentence with a minimum of 20 years.

During his time in prison, Montego demonstrated a positive outlook, took courses, and maintained an exemplary record. He was released on parole on February 19, 2023, and will serve the remaining two years under supervision. Now, he can reconnect with his community and spend time with his two children and family.

Montego wanted Claudia by his side when he walked out of prison. Though a snowstorm delayed her trip, they are planning to meet in April, marking the beginning of his new chapter.