In the course of researching the outcome of every death sentence since 1973 – more than 9,600 death sentences nationwide – DPIC identified 11 cases not previously included on the innocence list in which people who had been wrongfully convicted and sentenced to death were later exonerated. Read more about the cases below.
John Thomas Alford
North Carolina Conviction: 1975, Acquitted: 1976
John Thomas Alford was convicted and sentenced to death in 1975. Alford was tried with a codefendant who confessed to the murder. Alford presented evidence and witnesses that he was not at the scene of the crime, but he was not allowed to offer his codefendant’s confession as evidence of his innocence. The North Carolina Supreme Court reversed his conviction and sentence and ordered Alford be retried separately from his codefendant. At retrial, he was acquitted of all charges.
New York Stage and Film Commits $100,000 to Support Artists with NEXUS Initiative
New York Stage and Film, considered “one of the preeminent incubators for theater in the country,” has committed $100,000 to their new NEXUS Initiative that brings together 20 multi-hyphenate artists to explore the question “where does story exist at the intersection of stage and film?” Through this inaugural program, NYSAF will offer direct support to these artists – each participant receives $5,000 and will take part in a series of conversations focused on the needs of new and expanded forms of storytelling that resonate with our time.
In order to increase access to the program and respond to the ideas of a broad range of storytellers, these 20 participants were recommended by 14 leading artists of stage and film for their accomplishments in exploring new forms of storytelling. The leading artists selection committee includes Ayad Akhtar, César Alvarez, Luis Castro, Elsie Choi, Marcus Ga
Winnipeg Free Press
A man convicted of sexual offences against children is back in custody awaiting sentencing on more charges after he started luring new victims within hours of being released on day parole.
A man convicted of sexual offences against children is back in custody awaiting sentencing on more charges after he started luring new victims within hours of being released on day parole.
David Thomas Pearson, 38, pleaded guilty Thursday to charges of internet luring involving five girls between the ages of 12 and 16.
Pearson used several social media apps designed to attract children, and posed as a 15-year-old boy. He communicated with more than 130 young girls and a handful of boys before he was arrested, Crown attorney Katie Dojack told court.