Alexander Stokes Contompasis is a Jewish independent journalist from Albany, NY. 

On January 6, 2021, Alex was observing and a member of a counterprotest group during the “Stop The Steal” Rally outside the New York State Capitol, which was led by the white nationalist right-wing extremist groups the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.  Alex and his group were outnumbered and attacked by the armed protesters.  Alex’s wrist was broken during the melee and he used a pocket knife to defend himself and three others against the attacks. Serious, but non-fatal injuries occurred, and Alex was convicted on two separate counts of assault and a weapons charge.  He was sentenced to serve 12 years and 8 years and it was determined that the sentences should be served consecutively instead of the more common determination of concurrent sentences. He is currently serving this draconian 20-year sentence.

Alex’s adjudication process was unfair.  After waiting nearly two years, Alex was denied adequate defense during his rushed three-day trial.  And his role as a journalist was not presented to the jury. 

He is currently appealing his conviction and the sentence length, a true miscarriage of justice.  The New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Third Judicial Department upheld the conviction and the sentence on January 30, 2025. Alex is submitting his appeal to the NYS Court of Appeals. 

Please sign the petition to show your support of Alex and share his story to help us overturn his conviction.