SEMINOLE, OK — On January 8, 2025, Lisa Moss walked free from incarceration after a Seminole County judge granted her immediate release under the Oklahoma Survivors’ Act. Moss’s sentence of Life Without Parole was reduced to 30 years. She has served 34 years in prison and was released with credit for time served. This marks a historic moment for Moss, a survivor of domestic violence and sexual violence, and a step forward in addressing systemic injustices faced by survivors in Oklahoma.
Colleen McCarty, attorney and Executive Director of Oklahoma Appleseed, served as lead counsel on the case. Abby Gore, survivor justice staff attorney at Oklahoma Appleseed, was an indispensable member of the defense team. Oklahoma-based law firm GableGotwals provided pro bono representation through Shareholder Michael Scoggins, dedicating significant resources and expertise to secure Moss’s freedom. Local attorney Jerry Colclazier played an integral role in representing Moss in her home county and ensuring that her story was heard with compassion and clarity. Moss’s release would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of the legal community. District Attorney Erik Johnson, although staunch in his support for the victim’s family, helped to ensure that Moss’s release happened post haste once the ruling in her case had been made.
Seminole County District Court Judge Steven Kessinger made history when he decided that Moss’s abuse was proven by clear and convincing evidence and that this entitled her to a mitigated sentence.
This groundbreaking legislation provides a pathway for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking to seek post-conviction relief when their abuse played a significant role in their crime.
“The Court’s decision demonstrates a commitment to justice and to the legislative intent of the Oklahoma Survivors’ Act, which is to provide a second chance for survivors who have suffered unimaginable trauma,” said Colleen McCarty, Esq., Executive Director of Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law and Justice.
Lisa Moss’s case was one of the first filed under the Oklahoma Survivors’ Act, which was signed into law by Governor Kevin Stitt in 2024. Her release highlights the profound impact of this legislation, made possible by the tireless advocacy of incarcerated survivors, lawmakers, and attorneys who believed in a fairer justice system.
“This is a moment of hope for all survivors,” McCarty continued. “Lisa’s release is not just about her freedom—it’s about showing that the legal system can acknowledge the impact of trauma and take steps to correct its mistakes. We are grateful to GableGotwals, to Jerry Colclazier, DVIS, and so many more partners for coming together to make justice a reality for Lisa Moss.”
Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law and Justice will continue to advocate for survivors across the state, ensuring that the promise of the Oklahoma Survivors Act is fulfilled for every eligible applicant.
About Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law and Justice:
OK Appleseed is a nonprofit public interest legal center dedicated to fighting for the rights and opportunities of every Oklahoman. It promotes justice and equity through rigorous research, advocacy, and community engagement. We’re a part of the Appleseed Network.