Arvin McGee welcomed home to Tulsa

Tulsans welcomed a native back home after 14 years in prison. Oklahoma State University hosted a welcome party for Arvin McGee Saturday afternoon. <br><br>He was convicted of rape, but DNA tests recently

Sunday, March 17th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Tulsans welcomed a native back home after 14 years in prison. Oklahoma State University hosted a welcome party for Arvin McGee Saturday afternoon.

He was convicted of rape, but DNA tests recently cleared him of the crime. News on Six reporter Patrina Adger was there as people showed their support.

Arvin McGee is enjoying life as a free man. Tulsans rallied in big numbers at OSU-Tulsa's auditorium. Many here don't know McGee, but they know his story.

Through music and dance, the Tulsa community showed its love and support for a man who spent more than a decade behind bars. Rebecca Marks-Jimerson with Tulsa Community College"14 years have been lost in his life, and we can never totally regain that for him but to show that we embrace him and we want him to come back to the community." And they welcomed him with open arms.

McGee was issued a proclamation on behalf of the Tulsa City Council. Councilor Clay Bird, "To express our regret for what has happened for the injustice that has occurred and wish him the best of luck. We will be able to offer you at no charge, a physical exam, dental screening and 3 months of dental and medical office visits." Along with health coverage, McGee was offered full scholarships to Langston and Oral Roberts Universities and thousands of dollars in gift certificates and donations.

Mayor-elect Bill LaFortune also showed his support for McGee. "My wife and I have been working with Arvin since he was released to try and integrate him back to Tulsa and our society."

Arvin McGee, "I couldn't sleep anticipating all this." McGee was at a loss for words when asked about the outpour of support from fellow Tulsans. "So much love, support from people I haven't even met, I'm touched."

He says he's enjoying his time with his family, but says his fight continues. He wants to help others in his situation, once he gets back on his feet.