Louisiana Death Row Inmate Freed as 30-Year-Old Conviction Overturned

A Louisiana man has been released on bail after spending nearly 30 years on death row. Jimmie Duncan was convicted of first-degree murder in 1998 for the death of his then-girlfriend’s daughter, 23-month-old Haley Oliveaux. However, this conviction was overturned earlier this year, paving the way for his release.

Overturned Conviction

In April, Judge Alvin Sharp from the Fourth Judicial District Court overturned Duncan’s conviction. Expert testimony revealed that the forensic evidence used against him was “not scientifically defensible.” The court found that Oliveaux’s death likely resulted from accidental drowning rather than foul play.

Flawed Forensic Evidence

• The case involved controversial bite mark analysis.
• This technique has led to numerous wrongful convictions across the country.

Judge Sharp noted in his ruling that there was “a presumption of innocence” based on new evidence and Duncan’s clean criminal history. Duncan’s legal team views his bail as a significant step toward complete exoneration.

Recent Developments

Since 1973, over 200 individuals on death row have been exonerated in the U.S., with 12 exonerations occurring in Louisiana. This state has one of the highest rates of wrongful convictions in the nation.

Community Support

Duncan posted a $150,000 bond for his release and plans to stay with a relative in central Louisiana. Despite this, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has opposed his bail, urging that he should remain imprisoned during the ongoing Supreme Court review of his case.

Mother’s Testimony

During the bail hearing, Haley’s mother, Allison Layton Statham, expressed her belief in Duncan’s innocence. She stated that her daughter had a history of health issues, including seizures, which could have led to her drowning. Statham criticized the prosecution for relying on discredited forensic testimony.

Impact of Forensic Practices

The forensic methods employed in Duncan’s case, particularly bite mark analysis, have drawn significant criticism. They have contributed to wrongful convictions, including cases involving two Mississippi men who served decades in prison before being absolved by DNA evidence.

Next Steps

As Duncan awaits the Louisiana Supreme Court’s decision, prosecutors are attempting to reinstate his original conviction. His case brings attention to flaws in the justice system and highlights the need for reform in forensic practices.

Duncan was one of 55 inmates on Louisiana’s death row, located in Angola State Prison. His story has sparked community support, emphasizing the ongoing battle against wrongful convictions in the state.