No Way Home: Life Without Parole in Pennsylvania unpacks the origins of how tough-on-crime policies created one of the harshest second-degree murder laws in the country.
Under Pennsylvania’s felony murder rule, anyone involved in a felony that results in a death—whether they pulled the trigger or not—is automatically sentenced to die in prison, with no chance of parole.
These policies are often justified in the name of victims, but what do victims really want?
This film challenges the narrative that harsh sentencing equals justice by sharing the story of Mrs. DeeDee—a mother and activist caught in the crosshairs of injustice. After losing her brother to homicide, she was forced to grieve again when her son was sentenced to death by incarceration under the felony murder rule.
Her journey reveals a truth often ignored: many victims and their families seek accountability, healing, and second chances—not just punishment.
DIRECTOR, Producer & Editor
Danie Harris
Danie Harris
CINEMATOGRAPHER & Post Sound
Christopher McDonald
Christopher McDonald
CLIENT
Amistad Law Project
Amistad Law Project
