Prosecutors in Paul Hildwin's original trial relied heavily on now-outdated scientific evidence that claimed to show semen and sweat found at the crime scene likely came from Hildwin, the court's ruling said. Modern DNA testing not only disproved this, but demonstrated the samples belonged to William Haverty, the boyfriend of the victim, 42-year-old Vronzettie Cox.
"We cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that a significant pillar of the State's case, as presented to the jury, has collapsed and that this same evidence actually supports the defense," the court said in a 5-2 majority ruling.
"We vacate Hildwin's conviction for first-degree murder, vacate his death sentence, and remand for a new trial."
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Common causes of wrongful convictions, as presented by the Innocence Project, include:
References:
FL Sup. Ct. Orders New Trial for Man Facing Death
The Innocence Project Understand the Causes for Wrongful Convictions
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"Continue to fight this fight" ~Troy Anthony Davis
Anti-DP article by Mary Neal, director of
~Davis/MacPhail Truth Committee
~Dog Justice for Mentally Ill
~Human Rights for Prisoners March
~Assistance to the Incarcerated Mentally Ill
