Convicted Killer Gets Citation From Bush

Convicted murderer Stanley “Tookie” Williams has received an award for his good deeds on death row, complete with a letter from President Bush praising the notorious gang founder for demonstrating “the outstanding character of America.”

Williams, co-founder of the notorious Crips street gang, has been an anti-gang activist during his many years on death row at San Quentin State Prison, where he was sent after being convicted in 1981 for killing four people.

He has written 10 books, mostly warning young people to stay away from gangs.

The President’s Call to Service Award arrived as Williams, 53, continues his final fight for clemency.

His case is being reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court.

It was doubtful that the president, who oversaw 152 executions during his six years as Texas governor, knew that Williams had received a congratulatory letter bearing his signature.

More than 267,000 people have received the award, which costs $1 and includes a certificate of achievement and commendation letters from the president and former Sens. Bob Dole and John Glenn, honorary co-chairmen of the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation.

Sandy Scott, a spokesman for the council, refused to address the fact that the award was given to a condemned killer.

After nearly three days of attempts by Associated Press to get a comment, Scott e-mailed a response saying the awards are approved by nominating organizations, not the council.

Williams was nominated for the award by William A. Harrison of West Monroe, La., a minister with the Old Catholic Orthodox Church.

“People can be redeemed. It doesn’t matter where you come from,” Harrison said.

“You may be on death row but to be able to lend something that people can say, ‘This has inspired me to change my life.’ ”