History of Innocence Project

History

Our Founding

Barry Scheck and Peter Neufeld establish the Innocence Project as a law clinic at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.

Innocence Project founders Barry Scheck and Peter Neufeld

Barry Scheck (right) and Peter Neufeld (left) first met as public defenders at Bronx Legal Aid Society. The two realized the significance of DNA technology after learning of DNA methods through their work with students on the case of Marion Coakley. Soon, a small group of lawyers, students, and volunteers took on cases to free wrongfully convicted people through DNA testing at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.

Restoring Freedom

Glen Woodall is exonerated. He was wrongly convicted of multiple sexual assaults based on eyewitness misidentification, government misconduct, and flawed serology and hair analysis.

Glen Woodall wrongfully spent five years in prison.

Restoring Freedom

Glen Woodall wrongfully spent five years in prison.

Glen Woodall is exonerated. He was wrongly convicted of multiple sexual assaults based on eyewitness misidentification, government misconduct, and flawed serology and hair analysis.

Restoring Freedom

Kirk Bloodsworth is exonerated after being wrongly convicted of sexual assault and murder based on eyewitness misidentification and government misconduct.

Restoring Freedom

Kirk Bloodsworth is exonerated after being wrongly convicted of sexual assault and murder based on eyewitness misidentification and government misconduct.

History

Tracking Wrongful Convictions

U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, who is later a founding member of the Innocence Project's board, commissions a report on causes of the 28 wrongful convictions overturned through DNA testing.

History

Tracking Wrongful Convictions

U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, who is later a founding member of the Innocence Project's board, commissions a report on causes of the 28 wrongful convictions overturned through DNA testing.

Transforming Systems

Death-Row Exonerations and a Moratorium on the Death Penalty

A series of death-row exonerations in Illinois prompts the convening of the National Conference on Wrongful Convictions and the Death Penalty at Northwestern University School of Law. The conference, along with subsequent death-row exonerations that include that of Innocence Project client Ronald Jones, help propel the effort to get a successful moratorium on the death penalty in the state — the nation’s first.

In 1989, Ronald Jones was wrongly convicted of rape and murder largely based on eyewitness misidentification, a false confession, and the misapplication of forensic science. Following his conviction, a judge sentenced him to death.

Transforming Systems

Death-Row Exonerations and a Moratorium on the Death Penalty

A series of death-row exonerations in Illinois prompts the convening of the National Conference on Wrongful Convictions and the Death Penalty at Northwestern University School of Law. The conference, along with subsequent death-row exonerations that include that of Innocence Project client Ronald Jones, help propel the effort to get a successful moratorium on the death penalty in the state — the nation’s first.

In 1989, Ronald Jones was wrongly convicted of rape and murder largely based on eyewitness misidentification, a false confession, and the misapplication of forensic science. Following his conviction, a judge sentenced him to death.

Restoring Freedom

Innocent Men and The Innocent Man

Dennis Fritz and Ron Williamson are exonerated of a murder they did not commit. Their case eventually inspires John Grisham’s first nonfiction book, The Innocent Man: Murder and Injustice in a Small Town, which is published in 2006 and becomes a bestseller. Mr. Grisham later becomes an Innocence Project board member.

Following their wrongful convictions, Dennis Fritz (pictured left) was sentenced to life in prison and Ron Williamson (pictured right) was sentenced to death. They served 11 years in prison before they were exonerated.

Restoring Freedom

Innocent Men and The Innocent Man

Dennis Fritz and Ron Williamson are exonerated of a murder they did not commit. Their case eventually inspires John Grisham’s first nonfiction book, The Innocent Man: Murder and Injustice in a Small Town, which is published in 2006 and becomes a bestseller. Mr. Grisham later becomes an Innocence Project board member.

Following their wrongful convictions, Dennis Fritz (pictured left) was sentenced to life in prison and Ron Williamson (pictured right) was sentenced to death. They served 11 years in prison before they were exonerated.

Advancing the Movement

Innocence Stories

Actual Innocence, by Peter Neufeld, Barry Scheck, and New York Times reporter Jim Dwyer, is published.

Advancing the Movement

Innocence Stories

Actual Innocence, by Peter Neufeld, Barry Scheck, and New York Times reporter Jim Dwyer, is published.

Restoring Freedom

Earl Washington is exonerated based on DNA evidence and is the first person to be exonerated from Virginia's death row. His case helps pass laws that allow people to more easily get their cases back in court to prove their innocence, and was also cited in Governor Ralph Northam's 2021 decision to abolish the death penalty In Virginia.

Earl Washington (pictured center) was wrongfully imprisoned for 16 years for a murder and rape he did not commit. He once came within nine days of execution.

Restoring Freedom

Earl Washington is exonerated based on DNA evidence and is the first person to be exonerated from Virginia's death row. His case helps pass laws that allow people to more easily get their cases back in court to prove their innocence, and was also cited in Governor Ralph Northam's 2021 decision to abolish the death penalty In Virginia.

Earl Washington (pictured center) was wrongfully imprisoned for 16 years for a murder and rape he did not commit. He once came within nine days of execution.

Restoring Freedom

Larry Mayes, represented by the Innocence Project and the Innocence Project at the Indiana University School of Law, is exonerated after wrongfully spending 19 years in prison for a rape and robbery he did not commit.

Restoring Freedom

Larry Mayes, represented by the Innocence Project and the Innocence Project at the Indiana University School of Law, is exonerated after wrongfully spending 19 years in prison for a rape and robbery he did not commit.

Advancing the Movement

Photographing the Wrongfully Convicted

The Innocents, a Guggenheim Award-winning series by multidisciplinary artist Taryn Simon that documents the stories of those who were wrongfully incarcerated, is published.

Larry Youngblood with girlfriend Alice Laitner

Exoneree Larry Youngblood with his girlfriend Alice Laitner, who was an alibi witness at his trial, in Tucson, Arizona. Top right: Exoneree Troy Webb at the scene of the crime in Virginia Beach, Virginia. (Images: Taryn Simon)

Advancing the Movement

Photographing the Wrongfully Convicted

The Innocents, a Guggenheim Award-winning series by multidisciplinary artist Taryn Simon that documents the stories of those who were wrongfully incarcerated, is published.

Exoneree Larry Youngblood with his girlfriend Alice Laitner, who was an alibi witness at his trial, in Tucson, Arizona. Top right: Exoneree Troy Webb at the scene of the crime in Virginia Beach, Virginia. (Images: Taryn Simon)

Transforming Systems

Electronic Recording in Illinois

Illinois becomes the first state to pass a law requiring electronic recording of interrogation from start to finish.

Transforming Systems

Electronic Recording in Illinois

Illinois becomes the first state to pass a law requiring electronic recording of interrogation from start to finish.

History

The Innocence Project becomes an independent non-profit organization.

Restoring Freedom

Calvin Johnson is the first exonerated person to join the Innocence Project's Board of Directors.

Calvin Johnson (pictured on the left) was wrongly convicted of a sexual assault and robbery based on eyewitness misidentification and flawed serology. He spent 16 years in prison before the Innocence Project secured DNA testing that proved his innocence. Since his exoneration in 1999, Mr. Johnson has published a book, Exit to Freedom, and served on the board of the Georgia Innocence Project.

Restoring Freedom

Calvin Johnson is the first exonerated person to join the Innocence Project's Board of Directors.

Calvin Johnson (pictured on the left) was wrongly convicted of a sexual assault and robbery based on eyewitness misidentification and flawed serology. He spent 16 years in prison before the Innocence Project secured DNA testing that proved his innocence. Since his exoneration in 1999, Mr. Johnson has published a book, Exit to Freedom, and served on the board of the Georgia Innocence Project.

Transforming Systems

Instituting Post-Conviction DNA Testing

Congress passes and authorizes the Innocence Protection Act and the Kirk Bloodsworth Post-Conviction DNA Testing Program. They establish post-conviction DNA testing for those incarcerated in the federal system and award grants to states to help defray the costs of testing.

Advancing the Movement

Creating the Innocence Network

The Innocence Network, a coalition of innocence organizations that tackle wrongful convictions and is now headquartered at the Innocence Project, is formally established and is the first step toward greatly expanding the reach of the Innocence Project's work and advocacy.

Advancing the Movement

Creating the Innocence Network

The Innocence Network, a coalition of innocence organizations that tackle wrongful convictions and is now headquartered at the Innocence Project, is formally established and is the first step toward greatly expanding the reach of the Innocence Project's work and advocacy.

Transforming Systems

Strengthening Science in Texas

The Innocence Project successfully pushes for the creation of the Texas Forensic Science Commission, which investigates allegations of negligence or misconduct that hurt the integrity of forensic analysis and proposes corrective action.

Transforming Systems

Strengthening Science in Texas

The Innocence Project successfully pushes for the creation of the Texas Forensic Science Commission, which investigates allegations of negligence or misconduct that hurt the integrity of forensic analysis and proposes corrective action.

Advancing the Movement

Filming Stories of Exonerees

After Innocence, the first feature film about the exonerated, premieres at the Sundance Film Festival. The documentary features Innocence Project clients Dennis Maher, Calvin Willis, Scott Hornoff, Wilton Dedge, Vincent Moto, Nicholas Yarris, Ronald Cotton, and Herman Atkins.

Advancing the Movement

Filming Stories of Exonerees

After Innocence, the first feature film about the exonerated, premieres at the Sundance Film Festival. The documentary features Innocence Project clients Dennis Maher, Calvin Willis, Scott Hornoff, Wilton Dedge, Vincent Moto, Nicholas Yarris, Ronald Cotton, and Herman Atkins.

Restoring Freedom

Engaging in Social Work

The Innocence Project forms a Social Work team to provide exonerees and freed people with holistic support, including housing, connection to necessary medical services, and supportive counseling. It is the first of its kind to serve wrongfully convicted people post-release.

History

A Wrongful Conviction

An independent arson panel finds that the forensic analysis used to convict Cameron Todd Willingham — who was executed in 2004 for allegedly killing his children in a house fire, and is represented posthumously by the Innocence Project and Goldstein & Orr — was seriously flawed. The fire was, in fact, an accident. The panel’s report subsequently becomes the basis for arson-related exonerations nationwide, and Mr. Willingham’s case is later the focus of the 2011 documentary Incendiary: The Willingham Case and the 2018 film Trial by Fire.

Cameron Todd Willingham with his son on his shoulders

Cameron Todd Willingham always maintained his innocence in the death of his three young daughters and that he was asleep when the fire started.

History

A Wrongful Conviction

An independent arson panel finds that the forensic analysis used to convict Cameron Todd Willingham — who was executed in 2004 for allegedly killing his children in a house fire, and is represented posthumously by the Innocence Project and Goldstein & Orr — was seriously flawed. The fire was, in fact, an accident. The panel’s report subsequently becomes the basis for arson-related exonerations nationwide, and Mr. Willingham’s case is later the focus of the 2011 documentary Incendiary: The Willingham Case and the 2018 film Trial by Fire.

Cameron Todd Willingham always maintained his innocence in the death of his three young daughters and that he was asleep when the fire started.

Restoring Freedom

Innocence Project client Jerry Miller is exonerated after spending more than 24 years in prison for a sexual assault and robbery he did not commit.

Jerry Miller (pictured center) was largely convicted based on eyewitness misidentification. DNA testing not only exonerated him but also helped identify the actual attacker in his case.

Restoring Freedom

Innocence Project client Jerry Miller is exonerated after spending more than 24 years in prison for a sexual assault and robbery he did not commit.

Jerry Miller (pictured center) was largely convicted based on eyewitness misidentification. DNA testing not only exonerated him but also helped identify the actual attacker in his case.

History

To ensure that its work is based in science and that its advocacy work is based on research expertise, the Innocence Project forms its Science & Research department.

History

To ensure that its work is based in science and that its advocacy work is based on research expertise, the Innocence Project forms its Science & Research department.

Restoring Freedom

Exonerations in Mississippi

The Innocence Project secures the exoneration of Kennedy Brewer, who was sentenced to death based on invalid bite mark comparison evidence. DNA testing identified the actual person who committed the crime, which led to the exonerations of both Mr. Brewer and Levon Brooks, the latter of whom had been serving a life sentence for a related murder and was also represented by the Mississippi Innocence Project.

Kennedy Brewer (pictured second from right) wrongly served 15 years in prison while Levon Brooks (pictured second from left) was wrongly incarcerated for 16 years, before the two were exonerated.

Restoring Freedom

Exonerations in Mississippi

The Innocence Project secures the exoneration of Kennedy Brewer, who was sentenced to death based on invalid bite mark comparison evidence. DNA testing identified the actual person who committed the crime, which led to the exonerations of both Mr. Brewer and Levon Brooks, the latter of whom had been serving a life sentence for a related murder and was also represented by the Mississippi Innocence Project.

Kennedy Brewer (pictured second from right) wrongly served 15 years in prison while Levon Brooks (pictured second from left) was wrongly incarcerated for 16 years, before the two were exonerated.

Transforming Systems

Breaking Ground in Forensic Science

The National Academy of Sciences issues a report calling for a comprehensive reform of forensic sciences and increased forensic oversight. The report additionally recommends the creation of an independent, science-based federal entity that would oversee research and evaluation in the forensic sciences, establish scientifically validated standards, and ensure that those standards are applied consistently across the U.S.

Transforming Systems

Proving Innocence

The Innocence Project helps pass a number of innocence-related bills that include those in Arizona, Nebraska, and Oklahoma that urge a review of questionable arson convictions, and one in Rhode Island that creates a taskforce that would make recommendations to improve the accuracy of eyewitness identification.

Transforming Systems

Proving Innocence

The Innocence Project helps pass a number of innocence-related bills that include those in Arizona, Nebraska, and Oklahoma that urge a review of questionable arson convictions, and one in Rhode Island that creates a taskforce that would make recommendations to improve the accuracy of eyewitness identification.

Advancing the Movement

Wrongful Conviction on the Big Screen

Conviction, a biographical drama directed by Tony Goldwyn on exoneree Kenneth Waters, premieres. Mr. Goldwyn later joins the Innocence Project’s board of directors in 2017.

Conviction, starring Hilary Swank and Sam Rockwell, follows Betty Anne Waters (pictured left) as she works tirelessly to exonerate her brother Kenneth (pictured right). Mr. Waters was wrongly convicted of a 1980 murder in Massachusetts before he was exonerated in 2001.

Advancing the Movement

Wrongful Conviction on the Big Screen

Conviction, a biographical drama directed by Tony Goldwyn on exoneree Kenneth Waters, premieres. Mr. Goldwyn later joins the Innocence Project’s board of directors in 2017.

Conviction, starring Hilary Swank and Sam Rockwell, follows Betty Anne Waters (pictured left) as she works tirelessly to exonerate her brother Kenneth (pictured right). Mr. Waters was wrongly convicted of a 1980 murder in Massachusetts before he was exonerated in 2001.

Restoring Freedom

Supporting Exonerees

The Innocence Project establishes the Exoneree Fund, which supports exonerees with necessities such as healthcare and housing once they return home.

Transforming Systems

Preventing Wrongful Convictions Through the Courts

The New Jersey Supreme Court issues a critical decision in State v. Henderson, making changes to the requirements that courts must follow when evaluating eyewitness evidence and when instructing juries on such evidence. The changes are intended to reduce the risk of wrongful convictions.

Transforming Systems

Preventing Wrongful Convictions Through the Courts

The New Jersey Supreme Court issues a critical decision in State v. Henderson, making changes to the requirements that courts must follow when evaluating eyewitness evidence and when instructing juries on such evidence. The changes are intended to reduce the risk of wrongful convictions.

Restoring Freedom

Exoneree Marvin Anderson joins the Innocence Project's Board of Directors.

Marvin Anderson was exonerated in 2002 after the Innocence Project and the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project won access to DNA testing under a newly passed DNA testing law in Virginia. In addition to joining the Innocence Project's board, he achieved his dream of becoming a firefighter, rising to the position of Chief of the Hanover, Virginia Fire Department. (Image: Kenny Karpov/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Exoneree Marvin Anderson joins the Innocence Project's Board of Directors.

Marvin Anderson was exonerated in 2002 after the Innocence Project and the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project won access to DNA testing under a newly passed DNA testing law in Virginia. In addition to joining the Innocence Project's board, he achieved his dream of becoming a firefighter, rising to the position of Chief of the Hanover, Virginia Fire Department. (Image: Kenny Karpov/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Damon Thibodeaux, represented by the Innocence Project, the American Civil Liberties Union, the Capital Post-Conviction Project, and Fredrikson & Byron, is exonerated after being wrongly convicted of a murder. He spent 15 years on death row, before a re-investigation confirmed his innocence and helped overturn his conviction. Mr. Thibodeaux later became a long haul trucker, earned high school diploma, and spoke in support of wrongful conviction reform.

Damon Thibodeaux (pictured center) was wrongfully convicted based on an eyewitness misidentification and a false confession. Following his exoneration, he told a TV station that "[the] best part of my day, no matter how good the rest of my day is, is when I wake up every morning and I don't see those bars." (Image: Calhoun McCormick Imaging)

Restoring Freedom

Damon Thibodeaux, represented by the Innocence Project, the American Civil Liberties Union, the Capital Post-Conviction Project, and Fredrikson & Byron, is exonerated after being wrongly convicted of a murder. He spent 15 years on death row, before a re-investigation confirmed his innocence and helped overturn his conviction. Mr. Thibodeaux later became a long haul trucker, earned high school diploma, and spoke in support of wrongful conviction reform.

Damon Thibodeaux (pictured center) was wrongfully convicted based on an eyewitness misidentification and a false confession. Following his exoneration, he told a TV station that "[the] best part of my day, no matter how good the rest of my day is, is when I wake up every morning and I don't see those bars." (Image: Calhoun McCormick Imaging)

Transforming Systems

Developing Strategic Litigation

The Innocence Project forms its Strategic Litigation department, the first of its kind to tackle wrongful convictions in all stages of criminal litigation. The department works to push judges, prosecutors, and forensic experts to more thoroughly examine forensic science disciplines for scientific validity and reliability. It also helps establish legal precedent in those areas.

Transforming Systems

Developing Strategic Litigation

The Innocence Project forms its Strategic Litigation department, the first of its kind to tackle wrongful convictions in all stages of criminal litigation. The department works to push judges, prosecutors, and forensic experts to more thoroughly examine forensic science disciplines for scientific validity and reliability. It also helps establish legal precedent in those areas.

Transforming Systems

DNA Testing in Oklahoma

Oklahoma passes a post-conviction DNA testing law, allowing DNA testing in violent felony cases and those that result in sentences of 25 years or longer.

Transforming Systems

DNA Testing in Oklahoma

Oklahoma passes a post-conviction DNA testing law, allowing DNA testing in violent felony cases and those that result in sentences of 25 years or longer.

History

Ensuring Prosecutorial Accountability

Former Williamson County prosecutor Ken Anderson enters a plea to contempt for misconduct in Innocence Project client Michael Morton's wrongful murder conviction. He is the first prosecutor to spend time in jail for misconduct that led to a wrongful conviction.

During the process of post-conviction DNA litigation, Michael Morton's attorneys obtained documents proving his innocence that prosecutor Ken Anderson had withheld at trial. The Texas Supreme Court ordered a Court of Inquiry that later determined that there was probable cause to believe that Mr. Anderson had violated criminal laws by hiding evidence.

History

Ensuring Prosecutorial Accountability

Former Williamson County prosecutor Ken Anderson enters a plea to contempt for misconduct in Innocence Project client Michael Morton's wrongful murder conviction. He is the first prosecutor to spend time in jail for misconduct that led to a wrongful conviction.

During the process of post-conviction DNA litigation, Michael Morton's attorneys obtained documents proving his innocence that prosecutor Ken Anderson had withheld at trial. The Texas Supreme Court ordered a Court of Inquiry that later determined that there was probable cause to believe that Mr. Anderson had violated criminal laws by hiding evidence.

Restoring Freedom

Achieving Vindication in Illinois

Bennie Starks, one of the Innocence Project’s longest active clients, is exonerated, with the assistance of Schiff Harden LLP and Lake County attorneys Lauren Kaeseberg, John Curnyn, and Jed Stone. Mr. Starks was wrongly convicted of a rape and battery based on invalid bite mark analysis, flawed serology, and hair analysis.

Put image alt text here. Short, accurate description what the image shows, for SEO purposes.

Bennie Starks was wrongly incarcerated for 27 years before he was finally exonerated. (Image: Ingrid Bonne/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Achieving Vindication in Illinois

Bennie Starks, one of the Innocence Project’s longest active clients, is exonerated, with the assistance of Schiff Harden LLP and Lake County attorneys Lauren Kaeseberg, John Curnyn, and Jed Stone. Mr. Starks was wrongly convicted of a rape and battery based on invalid bite mark analysis, flawed serology, and hair analysis.

Bennie Starks was wrongly incarcerated for 27 years before he was finally exonerated. (Image: Ingrid Bonne/Innocence Project)

Transforming Systems

Recommending Best Practices for Eyewitness Identification

The National Academy of Sciences issues an important report evaluating scientific research on memory and eyewitness identification. The report recommends several best practices endorsed by the Innocence Project, including a blind administration of photos and live lineups during police eyewitness identification procedures, securing confidence statements from eyewitnesses immediately after they've looked at lineups, and more.

Restoring Freedom

Freeing a Wrongly Convicted Woman in Oklahoma

Represented by the Innocence Project and O’Carroll & O’Carroll, Michelle Murphy is exonerated after DNA testing proves her innocence. She is the first of a growing number of women proven innocent by the Innocence Project, and later becomes a member of the Innocence Project’s Exoneree Advisory Council and an active speaker on wrongful convictions.

In 1995, Michelle Murphy was wrongly convicted of the murder of her 15-week-old son largely based on a false confession. She served nearly 20 years in prison before she was exonerated. (Image: Kenny Karpov/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Freeing a Wrongly Convicted Woman in Oklahoma

Represented by the Innocence Project and O’Carroll & O’Carroll, Michelle Murphy is exonerated after DNA testing proves her innocence. She is the first of a growing number of women proven innocent by the Innocence Project, and later becomes a member of the Innocence Project’s Exoneree Advisory Council and an active speaker on wrongful convictions.

In 1995, Michelle Murphy was wrongly convicted of the murder of her 15-week-old son largely based on a false confession. She served nearly 20 years in prison before she was exonerated. (Image: Kenny Karpov/Innocence Project)

Transforming Systems

President Barack Obama signs the Wrongful Conviction Tax Relief Act into law, which excludes wrongfully convicted people from federal taxation on civil damages, restitution, or other monetary awards received as compensation for wrongful conviction.

Transforming Systems

President Barack Obama signs the Wrongful Conviction Tax Relief Act into law, which excludes wrongfully convicted people from federal taxation on civil damages, restitution, or other monetary awards received as compensation for wrongful conviction.

Transforming Systems

Addressing Hair Comparison Analysis

The Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Innocence Project, and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers publish a revelatory report that the FBI examiners' testimony in at least 90% of trial transcripts the bureau analyzed as part of its microscopic hair comparison analysis review contained erroneous statements.

In 2013, the DOJ and FBI announced that they would collaborate with the Innocence Project and NACDL on a comprehensive review of criminal cases in which FBI Laboratory and testimony included statements made by FBI examiners that were scientifically invalid. The review found that 26 out of 28 FBI examiners had submitted testimony or reports with an erroneous statement. Six years later, in 2019, the FBI published a root cause analysis of how errors in reporting and testimony of microscopic hair comparison analysis persisted through the years.

Transforming Systems

Addressing Hair Comparison Analysis

The Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Innocence Project, and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers publish a revelatory report that the FBI examiners' testimony in at least 90% of trial transcripts the bureau analyzed as part of its microscopic hair comparison analysis review contained erroneous statements.

In 2013, the DOJ and FBI announced that they would collaborate with the Innocence Project and NACDL on a comprehensive review of criminal cases in which FBI Laboratory and testimony included statements made by FBI examiners that were scientifically invalid. The review found that 26 out of 28 FBI examiners had submitted testimony or reports with an erroneous statement. Six years later, in 2019, the FBI published a root cause analysis of how errors in reporting and testimony of microscopic hair comparison analysis persisted through the years.

History

Assisting Attorneys

The Innocence Project publishes a paper in the Albany Law Review that summarizes the organization's analysis of nationwide DNA exonerations between 1989 and 2014. The paper serves as a citable source for attorneys working on wrongful convictions.

Restoring Freedom

Creating the Exoneree Advisory Council

The Innocence Project forms its first Exoneree Advisory Council in an intentional effort to make exoneree voices and experiences more central in guiding the organization's work.

Pictured below: Exoneree Advisory Council members Marvin Anderson, Cornelius Dupree, Eddie Lowery, and Jerry Miller.

Restoring Freedom

Creating the Exoneree Advisory Council

The Innocence Project forms its first Exoneree Advisory Council in an intentional effort to make exoneree voices and experiences more central in guiding the organization's work.

Pictured below: Exoneree Advisory Council members Marvin Anderson, Cornelius Dupree, Eddie Lowery, and Jerry Miller.

Transforming Systems

Analyzing Forensic Practices

The President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology releases a landmark report evaluating forensic disciplines and calling for additional research that would determine the validity of current and future forensic methods.

Transforming Systems

Analyzing Forensic Practices

The President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology releases a landmark report evaluating forensic disciplines and calling for additional research that would determine the validity of current and future forensic methods.

Transforming Systems

Improving Eyewitness Identification Practices

The Department of Justice recommends that all federal law enforcement agencies and prosecutors adhere to science-based eyewitness identification best practices that have long been advocated by the Innocence Project. The recommendations include those from the 2014 National Academy of Sciences report and in President Barack Obama's Task Force on 21st Century Policing.

Transforming Systems

Improving Eyewitness Identification Practices

The Department of Justice recommends that all federal law enforcement agencies and prosecutors adhere to science-based eyewitness identification best practices that have long been advocated by the Innocence Project. The recommendations include those from the 2014 National Academy of Sciences report and in President Barack Obama's Task Force on 21st Century Policing.

Restoring Freedom

George Perrot, represented by the Innocence Project and the Committee for Public Counsel Services Innocence Program, is exonerated after being wrongfully incarcerated for nearly 30 years for a sexual assault he did not commit.

George Perrot's conviction largely rested on FBI hair analysis testimony that proved to be scientifically invalid.

Restoring Freedom

George Perrot, represented by the Innocence Project and the Committee for Public Counsel Services Innocence Program, is exonerated after being wrongfully incarcerated for nearly 30 years for a sexual assault he did not commit.

George Perrot's conviction largely rested on FBI hair analysis testimony that proved to be scientifically invalid.

Transforming Systems

Regulating Jailhouse Informants in Texas

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signs a law that regulates jailhouse informants, requires police to record all custodial interrogations for suspects in serious felony cases, and more. The law is one of the most comprehensive in the U.S. in regards to the regulation of jailhouse informants.

Transforming Systems

Regulating Jailhouse Informants in Texas

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signs a law that regulates jailhouse informants, requires police to record all custodial interrogations for suspects in serious felony cases, and more. The law is one of the most comprehensive in the U.S. in regards to the regulation of jailhouse informants.

Restoring Freedom

William Barnhouse, represented by the Innocence Project and the Wrongful Conviction Clinic at Indiana University McKinney, is exonerated after wrongfully spending 25 years in prison for a sexual assault he did not commit.

William Barnhouse's wrongful conviction was rooted in eyewitness misidentification and a hair "match" that was scientifically unproven.

Restoring Freedom

William Barnhouse, represented by the Innocence Project and the Wrongful Conviction Clinic at Indiana University McKinney, is exonerated after wrongfully spending 25 years in prison for a sexual assault he did not commit.

William Barnhouse's wrongful conviction was rooted in eyewitness misidentification and a hair "match" that was scientifically unproven.

Advancing the Movement

Landing a Moment in Time

Time Magazine publishes a special edition issue that pays tribute to the Innocence Project as the organization marks 25 years of fighting for innocence.

Time Magazine cover: 'Innocent: The Fight Against Wrongful Convictions'

Advancing the Movement

Landing a Moment in Time

Time Magazine publishes a special edition issue that pays tribute to the Innocence Project as the organization marks 25 years of fighting for innocence.

Advancing the Movement

Educating on Guilty Pleas

The Innocence Project launches GuiltyPleaProblem.org, to surface the fact that innocent people plead guilty to crimes they did not commit.

GuiltyPleaProblem.org is part of a larger effort by the Innocence Project and members of the Innocence Network to expose the excessive dependence on guilty pleas at each stage of the criminal legal system. Research shows that 95% of felony convictions in the U.S. are obtained through guilty pleas and that 65% of the 418 exonerees who pleaded guilty were people of color.

Title text: Why Do Innocent People Plead Guilty To Crimes They Didn't Commit?

Advancing the Movement

Educating on Guilty Pleas

The Innocence Project launches GuiltyPleaProblem.org, to surface the fact that innocent people plead guilty to crimes they did not commit.

GuiltyPleaProblem.org is part of a larger effort by the Innocence Project and members of the Innocence Network to expose the excessive dependence on guilty pleas at each stage of the criminal legal system. Research shows that 95% of felony convictions in the U.S. are obtained through guilty pleas and that 65% of the 418 exonerees who pleaded guilty were people of color.

Transforming Systems

Pushing Reforms in New York

Several reforms led by the Innocence Project are adopted in New York, including one that makes the state the first to require criminal trial judges to direct prosecutors to disclose all information in law enforcement's possession that is favorable to criminal defendants. The rule comes as a number of prosecutors have hidden exculpatory evidence from wrongfully convicted people.

Transforming Systems

Pushing Reforms in New York

Several reforms led by the Innocence Project are adopted in New York, including one that makes the state the first to require criminal trial judges to direct prosecutors to disclose all information in law enforcement's possession that is favorable to criminal defendants. The rule comes as a number of prosecutors have hidden exculpatory evidence from wrongfully convicted people.

Restoring Freedom

Speaker and author Yusef Salaam is the third exonerated person to join the Innocence Project's Board of Directors.

Yusef Salaam (pictured center below), along with four other Black and brown teenagers, was wrongly convicted in a case that was rife with a racialized presumption of dangerousness and underscored racial bias within the U.S. criminal legal system. Mr. Salaam has since leveraged his platform to continue advocating for criminal justice reform and prison reform that would especially address the criminal justice system's disparate treatment of Black and brown youth. (Image: Elijah Craig/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Speaker and author Yusef Salaam is the third exonerated person to join the Innocence Project's Board of Directors.

Yusef Salaam (pictured center below), along with four other Black and brown teenagers, was wrongly convicted in a case that was rife with a racialized presumption of dangerousness and underscored racial bias within the U.S. criminal legal system. Mr. Salaam has since leveraged his platform to continue advocating for criminal justice reform and prison reform that would especially address the criminal justice system's disparate treatment of Black and brown youth. (Image: Elijah Craig/Innocence Project)

Transforming Systems

Pioneering Laws in Wyoming and Kansas

The Innocence Project helps successfully advocate for two major laws: one in Wyoming that gives the wrongfully convicted a way to prove their innocence and one in Kansas that provides state compensation for the wrongfully convicted.

Transforming Systems

Pioneering Laws in Wyoming and Kansas

The Innocence Project helps successfully advocate for two major laws: one in Wyoming that gives the wrongfully convicted a way to prove their innocence and one in Kansas that provides state compensation for the wrongfully convicted.

Transforming Systems

Forming the First Independent Commission

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signs into law legislation that would create the country's first independent statewide commission to address prosecutorial misconduct. The law is backed by lawmakers and a coalition of impacted people and organizations led by Innocence Project client Jeffrey Deskovic's Deskovic Foundation and criminal justice reform group It Could Happen to You.

Transforming Systems

Forming the First Independent Commission

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signs into law legislation that would create the country's first independent statewide commission to address prosecutorial misconduct. The law is backed by lawmakers and a coalition of impacted people and organizations led by Innocence Project client Jeffrey Deskovic's Deskovic Foundation and criminal justice reform group It Could Happen to You.

Advancing the Movement

Marching in Tennessee

Led by exoneree Cornelius Dupree, the Innocence Network organizes the "March for Justice," in Memphis, Tennessee, to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and connect the innocence movement to the civil rights movement. The march draws over 800 participants, who collectively bring attention to racial injustice and wrongful convictions.

The March for Justice was held on the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s death and in front of the Civil Rights Museum. (Image: Lacy Atkins/Innocence Project)

Advancing the Movement

Marching in Tennessee

Led by exoneree Cornelius Dupree, the Innocence Network organizes the "March for Justice," in Memphis, Tennessee, to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and connect the innocence movement to the civil rights movement. The march draws over 800 participants, who collectively bring attention to racial injustice and wrongful convictions.

The March for Justice was held on the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s death and in front of the Civil Rights Museum. (Image: Lacy Atkins/Innocence Project)

Transforming Systems

Congress passes a law that provides tax relief for all exonerated people who have received either civil damages or statutory restitution for a wrongful conviction.

Transforming Systems

Congress passes a law that provides tax relief for all exonerated people who have received either civil damages or statutory restitution for a wrongful conviction.

Restoring Freedom

Freeing a Record Number of Exonerees

The Innocence Project helps exonerate a record number of nine innocent people in one year — the most ever in the organization's history. Exonerees include Steven Mark Chaney, whose exoneration is the first criminal court decision to positively cite the 2009 National Academy of Sciences report as proof that bite mark evidence is not rooted in science.

After wrongfully serving 28 years in prison, Steven Mark Chaney became a devoted prison missionary and ministered to incarcerated people. (Image: Lara Solt/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Freeing a Record Number of Exonerees

The Innocence Project helps exonerate a record number of nine innocent people in one year — the most ever in the organization's history. Exonerees include Steven Mark Chaney, whose exoneration is the first criminal court decision to positively cite the 2009 National Academy of Sciences report as proof that bite mark evidence is not rooted in science.

After wrongfully serving 28 years in prison, Steven Mark Chaney became a devoted prison missionary and ministered to incarcerated people. (Image: Lara Solt/Innocence Project)

Research

Leading in Research

The Innocence Project publishes a paper in Forensic Science International on cognitive bias research in forensic science. The paper ranks among the journal's most downloaded articles.

Research

Leading in Research

The Innocence Project publishes a paper in Forensic Science International on cognitive bias research in forensic science. The paper ranks among the journal's most downloaded articles.

Restoring Freedom

Expanding the Exoneree Advisory Council

The Innocence Project's Exoneree Advisory Council inducts its second group of members. Their addition to the council helps better inform the organization's efforts to advance criminal and racial justice reform.

Pictured below: Exoneree Advisory Council members Malcolm Alexander (Image: Lacy Atkins/ Innocence Project), Michelle Murphy (Image: Kenny Karpov/ Innocence Project), Angel Gonzalez (Image: Kenny Karpov/ Innocence Project), and Dewey Bozella.

Restoring Freedom

Expanding the Exoneree Advisory Council

The Innocence Project's Exoneree Advisory Council inducts its second group of members. Their addition to the council helps better inform the organization's efforts to advance criminal and racial justice reform.

Pictured below: Exoneree Advisory Council members Malcolm Alexander (Image: Lacy Atkins/ Innocence Project), Michelle Murphy (Image: Kenny Karpov/ Innocence Project), Angel Gonzalez (Image: Kenny Karpov/ Innocence Project), and Dewey Bozella.

Restoring Freedom

Christopher Tapp, represented by the Innocence Project, the Idaho Innocence Project, and local counsel John Thomas, is exonerated after he was wrongfully convicted of murder and spent 21 years in prison. Following his exoneration, he, along with fellow Idahoan exoneree Charles Fain, the Innocence Project, and the Idaho Innocence Project, work to push for a compensation law in Idaho.

Christopher Tapp (pictured center above) was wrongfully convicted as a result of a false confession and unreliable witness testimony. (Image: Otto Kitsinger/AP Images for the Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Christopher Tapp, represented by the Innocence Project, the Idaho Innocence Project, and local counsel John Thomas, is exonerated after he was wrongfully convicted of murder and spent 21 years in prison. Following his exoneration, he, along with fellow Idahoan exoneree Charles Fain, the Innocence Project, and the Idaho Innocence Project, work to push for a compensation law in Idaho.

Christopher Tapp (pictured center above) was wrongfully convicted as a result of a false confession and unreliable witness testimony. (Image: Otto Kitsinger/AP Images for the Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Huwe Burton, represented by the Innocence Project, the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law's Center on Wrongful Convictions, and the Rutgers Law School's Criminal and Youth Justice Clinic, is exonerated after wrongfully spending 19 years in prison for a murder he did not commit.

Following his exoneration, Huwe Burton was instrumental in the passage of a 2021 Oregon law that bans police deception in the interrogation of minors. (Image: Sameer Abdel-Khalek/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Huwe Burton, represented by the Innocence Project, the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law's Center on Wrongful Convictions, and the Rutgers Law School's Criminal and Youth Justice Clinic, is exonerated after wrongfully spending 19 years in prison for a murder he did not commit.

Following his exoneration, Huwe Burton was instrumental in the passage of a 2021 Oregon law that bans police deception in the interrogation of minors. (Image: Sameer Abdel-Khalek/Innocence Project)

Transforming Systems

Reforming Discovery in New York

The Discovery for Justice Reform Act — which requires prosecutors to turn over critical evidence to defense attorneys early in the criminal legal process — passes the New York state Legislature, becoming one of the most transformational criminal legal reforms in the state’s history.

Transforming Systems

Reforming Discovery in New York

The Discovery for Justice Reform Act — which requires prosecutors to turn over critical evidence to defense attorneys early in the criminal legal process — passes the New York state Legislature, becoming one of the most transformational criminal legal reforms in the state’s history.

Advancing the Movement

Documenting Wrongful Convictions

Netflix releases The Innocence Files, a nine-episode documentary that features the cases of wrongfully convicted people and delves into the work of the Innocence Project, Pennsylvania Innocence Project, Northern California Innocence Project, and the WMU-Cooley Innocence Project at the Thomas M. Cooley School of Law.

Advancing the Movement

Documenting Wrongful Convictions

Netflix releases The Innocence Files, a nine-episode documentary that features the cases of wrongfully convicted people and delves into the work of the Innocence Project, Pennsylvania Innocence Project, Northern California Innocence Project, and the WMU-Cooley Innocence Project at the Thomas M. Cooley School of Law.

Advancing the Movement

Growing the Advocate Community

Amid racial tumult and growing calls for criminal justice reform, the Innocence Project's digital community grows more than eightfold compared to four years prior— from 368,000 supporters to 3.3 million. The Innocence Project, members of the Innocence Network, and the larger innocence movement also gain significant momentum following a successful outreach effort on Wrongful Conviction Day.

In the wake of mass protests following the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and countless other Black people, the number of community members who signed up to join the Innocence Project in advocating for policy change grew to 928,000.

Advancing the Movement

Growing the Advocate Community

Amid racial tumult and growing calls for criminal justice reform, the Innocence Project's digital community grows more than eightfold compared to four years prior— from 368,000 supporters to 3.3 million. The Innocence Project, members of the Innocence Network, and the larger innocence movement also gain significant momentum following a successful outreach effort on Wrongful Conviction Day.

In the wake of mass protests following the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and countless other Black people, the number of community members who signed up to join the Innocence Project in advocating for policy change grew to 928,000.

Transforming Systems

Ensuring Police Accountability

As a result of George Floyd's murder and to advance racial justice, the Innocence Project makes police accountability a priority, including eliminating or reforming qualified immunity and making police disciplinary records publicly available.

Transforming Systems

Ensuring Police Accountability

As a result of George Floyd's murder and to advance racial justice, the Innocence Project makes police accountability a priority, including eliminating or reforming qualified immunity and making police disciplinary records publicly available.

Transforming Systems

Securing Policy Wins in the Pandemic

In the wake of a global pandemic and notwithstanding a shutdown of state legislatures across the U.S, the Innocence Project works to help pass more than 10 major reforms, including laws in Oklahoma and Maryland that protect against unreliable jailhouse informant testimony and a law in Nebraska that permits experts to testify about the unreliability of eyewitness identification.

Transforming Systems

Securing Policy Wins in the Pandemic

In the wake of a global pandemic and notwithstanding a shutdown of state legislatures across the U.S, the Innocence Project works to help pass more than 10 major reforms, including laws in Oklahoma and Maryland that protect against unreliable jailhouse informant testimony and a law in Nebraska that permits experts to testify about the unreliability of eyewitness identification.

Restoring Freedom

A Day of Multiple Justice Victories

Pervis Payne, who has strong claims of innocence, is removed from death row on the same day Muhammad Aziz and Khalil Islam are exonerated in the assassination of Malcolm X. The victories are the result of the hard work led by the men's families and legal teams, Black community leaders and activists on the ground, and support from the Innocence Project.

When I was 13, I sat in the court and I heard the judge sentence him to death by way of the electric chair. Today, I sat in the same court and I got an opportunity at 47 years old to hear the judge say that Pervis Payne’s death sentence has been canceled. If that’s not celebratory, I don't know what is, so I am so grateful today.

Rolanda Holman, Pervis Payne's sister

Supporters in New York City rally together to free Pervis Payne from death row. (Image: Elijah Craig/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

A Day of Multiple Justice Victories

Pervis Payne, who has strong claims of innocence, is removed from death row on the same day Muhammad Aziz and Khalil Islam are exonerated in the assassination of Malcolm X. The victories are the result of the hard work led by the men's families and legal teams, Black community leaders and activists on the ground, and support from the Innocence Project.

When I was 13, I sat in the court and I heard the judge sentence him to death by way of the electric chair. Today, I sat in the same court and I got an opportunity at 47 years old to hear the judge say that Pervis Payne’s death sentence has been canceled. If that’s not celebratory, I don't know what is, so I am so grateful today.

Rolanda Holman, Pervis Payne's sister

Supporters in New York City rally together to free Pervis Payne from death row. (Image: Elijah Craig/Innocence Project)

History

Prosecutor Disbarred

Former Dallas County prosecutor Richard Jackson, who withheld exculpatory evidence in the prosecution of Dennis Allen and Stanley Mozee, becomes the fourth prosecutor in the nation to be disbarred for misconduct. At the time of his disbarment, just 4% of prosecutors whose misconduct led to a wrongful conviction had been professionally or personally disciplined.

To be honest, I believed in our system. I did not know there were individuals who were engaging in misconduct, who would do this until it actually happened to me. I believed that the system was in place for everybody and that it would give everyone the opportunity at real justice. I really believed that the system would work.

Dennis Allen

Stanley Mozee (pictured left) and Dennis Allen (pictured center) were both wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison in 2000. They were exonerated in 2019, based on DNA testing that excluded them from key evidence at the crime scene. (Image: Lara Solt)

History

Prosecutor Disbarred

Former Dallas County prosecutor Richard Jackson, who withheld exculpatory evidence in the prosecution of Dennis Allen and Stanley Mozee, becomes the fourth prosecutor in the nation to be disbarred for misconduct. At the time of his disbarment, just 4% of prosecutors whose misconduct led to a wrongful conviction had been professionally or personally disciplined.

To be honest, I believed in our system. I did not know there were individuals who were engaging in misconduct, who would do this until it actually happened to me. I believed that the system was in place for everybody and that it would give everyone the opportunity at real justice. I really believed that the system would work.

Dennis Allen

Stanley Mozee (pictured left) and Dennis Allen (pictured center) were both wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison in 2000. They were exonerated in 2019, based on DNA testing that excluded them from key evidence at the crime scene. (Image: Lara Solt)

Transforming Systems

Achieving Reforms Across the Country

The Innocence Project helps secure 21 state-based reforms, which include new laws in Oregon and Illinois that ban police from lying to youth during interrogation (a tactic that has disproportionately impacted Black, Indigenous, and people of color), a historic law in Maryland that prevents the misuse of genetic information, and an end to qualified immunity in New Mexico.

Transforming Systems

Achieving Reforms Across the Country

The Innocence Project helps secure 21 state-based reforms, which include new laws in Oregon and Illinois that ban police from lying to youth during interrogation (a tactic that has disproportionately impacted Black, Indigenous, and people of color), a historic law in Maryland that prevents the misuse of genetic information, and an end to qualified immunity in New Mexico.

Transforming Systems

Record Funding for Grant Programs

President Joe Biden signs into law a spending package that allocates a record $24 million to the Wrongful Conviction Review grant program and the Kirk Bloodsworth Post-Conviction DNA Testing grant program. This substantial funding increase will expand access to post-conviction representation, investigation, and forensic testing.

Transforming Systems

Record Funding for Grant Programs

President Joe Biden signs into law a spending package that allocates a record $24 million to the Wrongful Conviction Review grant program and the Kirk Bloodsworth Post-Conviction DNA Testing grant program. This substantial funding increase will expand access to post-conviction representation, investigation, and forensic testing.

History

Looking Forward

The Innocence Project reaffirms its commitment to three foundational pillars — Restoring Freedom, Transforming Systems, and Advancing the Movement — by widening exoneration efforts, reinforcing scientific initiatives, tackling the racial bias inherent in wrongful convictions, and more.

History

Looking Forward

The Innocence Project reaffirms its commitment to three foundational pillars — Restoring Freedom, Transforming Systems, and Advancing the Movement — by widening exoneration efforts, reinforcing scientific initiatives, tackling the racial bias inherent in wrongful convictions, and more.

Restoring Freedom

Securing Exonerations Across the Country

The Innocence Project helps exonerate nine innocent people across states such as New York, Texas, Hawaii, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. They include Leonard Mack, whose wrongful conviction of 47 years is the longest to be vacated based on new DNA evidence known to the organization.

In September 2023, Leonard Mack was exonerated of rape and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon. (Image: Elijah Craig II/Innocence Project)

Restoring Freedom

Securing Exonerations Across the Country

The Innocence Project helps exonerate nine innocent people across states such as New York, Texas, Hawaii, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. They include Leonard Mack, whose wrongful conviction of 47 years is the longest to be vacated based on new DNA evidence known to the organization.

In September 2023, Leonard Mack was exonerated of rape and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon. (Image: Elijah Craig II/Innocence Project)

Introduction collage photo credits, from left to right: Row 1: Larry Busacca for AP Images/Innocence Project, Christopher Lee/Innocence Project, Courtesy of Innocence Project staff, Courtesy of Innocence Project staff / Row 2: Mary Kang/Innocence Project, Sameer Abdel-Khalek/Innocence Project, Kenny Karpov/Innocence Project / Row 3: Kevin Monko/Innocence Project, Courtesy of Innocence Project staff, Elijah Craig/Innocence Project / Row 4: Courtesy of Innocence Project staff, Courtesy of Innocence Project staff, Jeenah Moon/Innocence Project

Chronicling a Powerful
Legacy of

Justice
Work

Chronicling a
Powerful Legacy of

Justice
Work

Realizing the power of DNA testing in ending wrongful convictions, Barry Scheck and Peter Neufeld founded the Innocence Project as a law clinic at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in 1992.

Collaborative Victory

1992

1993

1996

1998

1999

2000

2001

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Chronicling a PowerfulLegacy of

Justice Work

Chronicling a Powerful Legacy of

Justice Work

Realizing the power of DNA testing in ending wrongful convictions, Barry Scheck and Peter Neufeld founded the Innocence Project as a law clinic at the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in 1992.

Collaborative Victory

1992

1993

1996

1998

1999

2000

2001

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Chronicling a Powerful
Legacy of

Justice
Work

Chronicling a
Powerful Legacy of

Justice
Work