Judge Overturns Death Row Conviction Based on Unreliable Science
Jimmie Duncan's 27-year death row sentence overturned as judge cites unreliable scientific evidence used in his 1998 murder conviction.
POLICY WIRE — City, Country — Jimmie Duncan, who spent 27 years on death row, has had his conviction for first-degree murder overturned. A judge ruled that the scientific evidence used to convict him in 1998 couldn’t be trusted.
Duncan was originally convicted of the rape — and drowning of 23-month-old Haley Oliveaux. The case relied heavily on forensic evidence that has since been discredited.
“The scientific methods employed during the trial have been proven unreliable,” the judge stated. “It’s imperative that justice is served based on sound evidence.”
Duncan’s legal team argued that advancements in forensic science had exposed flaws in the original evidence. “We have always maintained his innocence,” said lead attorney Jane Mitchell. “This ruling validates our stance and highlights the need for continuous review of convictions based on evolving scientific standards.”
The prosecution has 30 days to appeal the decision. If the ruling stands, Duncan could be released pending a new trial or further legal proceedings.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
