Greg Taylor, victim's sister speak to Duke divinity students

Divinity students at Duke University heard from an unlikely pair of allies Tuesday about how prison ministry can help inmates when they need God most.

"These divinity students going into prison ministry, they're going to see some people at their worst," said Gregory Taylor, who spent nearly 17 years in prison for the murder of Jacquetta Thomas.

In February 2010, a special three-judge panel unanimously decided there was clear and convincing evidence that proved Taylor did not commit the crime.

Thomas' sister, Yolanda Littlejohn, said she has long believed in Taylor's innocence. She visited him in prison and the two formed a friendship over the years.

Tuesday's discussion was the first time Taylor and Littlejohn told their story together.

Taylor said inmates often feel hopeless, so faith is more important than ever.

"You're so scared to hope anymore because you've been let down so many times," he said.

Littlejohn said she was moved by Taylor's account of his time in prison.

"My heart hurt for him, just listening to the things we shared," she said.