Disabled Veteran Facing Life For Killing A Criminal!!!
Lt. Col. (Dr.) Jerome Ersland is a disabled veteran who retired from the United States Air Force. Jerome joined the military and became a pharmacist because he wanted to serve our Country and help his fellow Americans. Due to inoperable broken back / spinal cord injury Jerome is forced to wear a back brace at all times that severely restricts his movement. In spite of this, Jerome still works full time and continues to serve his community. He belongs to the DAV, the American Legion, the VFW, serves as Vice President of his Church and as an advisor for the Boy Scouts.
On May 19, 2009 at closing time when all the controlled substances and money were out for counting two armed robbers wearing ski-masks came to Reliable Pharmacy. One of the three employees inadvertently pushed the button allowing them in. As soon as the door opened, one of the robbers carefully placed a board in the doorway securing their exit. At the same time, the other robber pulled out his pistol demanding drugs and money threatening to kill anyone that did not comply. These robbers had been coached exactly which narcotics had the most street value according to ‘The Oklahoman Newspaper’ reporter Nolan Clay. As employees were retreating to the back of the store, Shots were fired and one of the robbers bullets struck Jerome. He returned fire killing one of the robbers. Jerome saved the employees lives, and prevented approximately $660,000 (street-value) worth of drugs from being stolen. His brave actions helped police apprehend other people involved in the planning and execution of this intricate, armed gang related robbery. Also, according to Nolan Clay these people were “alleged ring leaders previously convicted of thefts and assaults.” When the Oklahoma City Police arrived, they told Jerome he was a hero.
Eight days later, Oklahoma County D.A. David Prater charged him with murder one at the request of the NAACP. Jerome is now bankrupt, having spent his whole retirement and all of his current salary goes to lawyer fees. He pays 100k in bond every year (twice so far) and even though he hasn’t been convicted, he is on house arrest. Jerome wears a GPS ankle tracking device that also cost around $480 a month! Jerome has to get permission a full week in advance for a simple trip to the store. Jerome has served honorably in our military, plays an active role in our community, and SAVED the lives of his employees. Jerome is a hero, a veteran, a friendly neighbor! Please consider a personal donation to help Jerome continue fighting this injustice!
A donation of any amount, small or large would go toward helping Jerome live as normal of a life as possible. Your help is greatly appreciated.
