Statement by the family of Michelle Moore-Bosko

Our family is devastated to learn that Governor Kaine has chosen to ignore the facts and history of this case by granting a conditional pardon to these confessed and convicted rapists and murderers. There is absolutely zero new evidence or information to justify this decision.

We do not believe it is a coincidence that Governor Kaine granted these pardons just a few weeks after the announcement that John Grisham intends to write a screenplay about this case. Stories about rapists and murderers who confess, then spend the rest of their lives in prison, do not make interesting movies.

Obviously, Mr. Grisham’s wealth and influence are far more important to Governor Kaine’s political aspirations and public image than truth or justice. Anyone who has questions about this relationship should research Mr. Grisham’s history of political contributions, where they will find that Grisham has contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars, to Governor Kaine, the Democratic National Committee and other Democratic candidates.

Our family extends sincere thanks to the police officers, district attorneys, victim advocates, jurors and members of the judicial system who refused to give in to political pressure and the campaign of misinformation that we have endured for the past 12 years. They proved time, after time, after time that the Norfolk Four are guilty.

It is truly shameful and a disservice to the citizens of Virginia and our family, that the decisions of the courts have been ignored, and confessed rapists and murderers are being set free.