More Than Our Crimes (MTOC) was started in 2020 by Robert Barton, then incarcerated in a federal prison in Florida, and his journalist penpal, Pam Bailey. What started as a blog featuring Rob's story and reports from inside has expanded to advocate for everyone in federal prison, with a special focus on DC residents.

When you donate even the smallest amount, you help us build the staff and expand the work of this new nonprofit, which defines its work based on feedback we receive from a network of more than 2,000 people still "behind the wall" of federal institutions.

MTOC is small, but mighty. Every penny you contribute goes right to the work of amplifying the voices of one of the most marginalized populations in the country. We are currently focused on civic education among DC residents, whose right to vote was restored in 2020.

You can join the cause

Do you want to help us promote federal prison reform and amplify the voices of incarcerated people who are so much more than their criminal “labels”? Do you believe in second chances for all? And for DC residents in prison, do you want them to be able to exercise their civic voice by casting a meaningful, informed vote?

Then please donate what you can! We are a nonprofit registered with the IRS (501c-3), so all gifts are tax exempt.

Your donation will help defray the cost of:

The development, testing and distribution of a corresponence course on how government works, for DC residents who can now vote.
Stipends for incarcerated people who write for our website and returned citizens who speak for us at public events.
Books for people in federal prison.
And more!

Give People in Federal Prison a Voice!

By More Than Our Crimes

Give People in Federal Prison a Voice!

Promote rehabilitation and second chances