‘I forgive you for what you’ve taken from me’: Mother wants fentanyl dealer to do the right thing

Friday, in an Oklahoma county courtroom, supporters for William Klein and Abby Johnson sat on both sides of the courtroom.

Johnson was sentenced to 20 years for her role in the fentanyl overdose death of William Klein.  

“In the beginning we wanted to put her away,” said Danielle Harland, mother of Klein.  

Harland has since had a change of heart, saying, “I would like to see her come out and be a part of our warrior team. Would I have wanted my son to be given an opportunity to change his life? Of course I would have and that’s the gift I feel like I’m giving to Abby Johnson.” 

Johnson stood before Judge Susan C. Stallings on Friday afternoon, showing remorse as she teared up when family and friends of Klein read impact statements.  

The emotional statements also impacted supporters on both sides as many of them fought back their own tears.  

As Harland read her statement to Johnson, her details were reflective of pain as she recalled her son dying 699 days ago in room 238 of an Oklahoma City Holiday Inn after being sober for 56 days. 

“My son was a crazy bright light in a dark world,” said Harland in the courtroom. 

Becky Wade, who lost her daughter a few years ago to fentanyl, said she reached out to Harland when she learned of the death.  

“It’s the hardest thing to lose a child. I can’t even begin to tell you the pain your heart feels forever,” said Wade.  

Harland said she hopes Johnson will begin a road to sobriety and, hopefully, get involved with the recovery community in an effort to help save lives.