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Charges Dropped Against Man Accused Of Dorchester Gas Station Clerk Murder

BOSTON (CBS) - Prosecutors have dropped all charges against 21-year-old Kevin Williams in the murder of 67-year-old Jose Luis Phinn Williams in Dorchester citing insufficient evidence. After weeks of fighting for his innocence, his family said that's not enough.

"I am happy, I am very happy," said Kevin Williams.

Surrounded by his family, Williams smiled knowing he is no longer charged with murder. Since his arrest, his mom has touted his innocence to a legal system she says would not listen.

Kevin Williams
Kevin Williams outside Dorchester District Court (WBZ-TV)

"There is a system that is broken. There is a system that needs to be fixed. I cannot sit back and not say anything anymore," said Regina Hunter, Williams' mom.

Williams was charged with murdering Jose Williams who was working as a gas station attendant in Dorchester on October 6. That night police arrested Williams and investigators said they had a strong witness ID and video surveillance.

"I will step up for my kid when he is 100% not guilty, and I can say that with 100% confidence because he was at home with me," said Hunter.

The family also found video surveillance proving Williams was not there. However, he spent five weeks in jail before all the charges were dropped. The district attorney's office now says the case warrants further investigation.

Jose Luis Phinn Williams
Jose Luis Phinn Williams. (Family photo)

"They crucified him, crucified him and now that everything is coming out, they are still crucifying him because they're refusing to admit they're wrong," Hunter said.

Outside the Dorchester District Court House, Williams credited his uncle, a former NAACP president, and in a lighthearted moment, his mom with freeing him.

"My mom's an animal. She puts her heart into everything," said Williams. "I'm innocent. I'm an innocent gentleman."

The family wants a public apology from Boston police and the DA's office, and the charges removed from his record.

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