The Jericho Mile

Convicted of first-degree murder, Murphy believes his act was justified and remains a loner within the prison. He is obsessed with running, turning the yard into his personal track and treating speed as a form of freedom. Nicknamed 'Lickety Split' by fellow inmates, he relies on a single friendship with Stiles as his anchor. His ambition to compete in Olympic trials drives the plot and culminates in a ritual race against the constraints of prison life.

A Black inmate and Murphy's only real friend inside the prison, Stiles negotiates with power factions and becomes entangled in a plan to secure a conjugal visit for himself. He attempts to help Murphy while resisting corrupt schemes, and faces fatal consequences after a confrontation with prison authority. His loyalty and downfall highlight the fragility of solidarity within prison politics.

The head of the white gang, Dr. D exerts coercive influence and negotiates deals that affect the prison's power dynamics. He arranges a convoluted conjugal-visit scheme through Stiles to advance his own interests, demonstrating how manipulation can shape events behind bars. His presence escalates tensions between factions and complicates Murphy's quest for an official track time.

The prison authority who oversees the yard and defense of institutional rules. He initiates the plan to build a proper track for Murphy, turning inmate labor into a communal project and pressing the prison to pursue legitimate recognition of Murphy's running ability. His decisions set the boundary between punishment and opportunity.

The prison psychologist who measures Murphy's speed, bringing a sports writer to time him and awakening the outside interest in his capability. He serves as the narrative device that quantifies Murphy's ability and frames the philosophical question of what the run represents within confinement. His involvement helps propel Murphy toward the Olympic-linked arc.

The state track and field coach who is brought in to challenge Murphy by introducing rival runners. He represents external athletic standards and the push to test Murphy against seasoned competitors. His interactions turn Murphy's dream into a measurable, competitive goal.