Ann Arbor Criminal Defense Blog
In 1982 Archie Williams was wrongfully convicted of rape, aggravated burglary and attempted murder. He was sentenced to life in prison. Fingerprint technology proved his innocence due to the innocence project, a nonprofit organization that challenges wrongful convictions. The true rapist was identified as Stephen Forbes. Forbes had been convicted of several other rapes and later passed in prison. During the trial Williams had several alibi’s that testified he was sleeping at the time of the crime. The victim, however, identified him in a photographic line-up as the rapist. Therefore, he was found guilty by 11 out of 12 jurors within 5 hours.
Now that he is a free man Williams plans on proving other inmates innocence utilizing DNA and fingerprint technology. Post-conviction DNA testing is now allowed in all states, however the use of the new fingerprint technology is underutilized. Thankfully, in 2014 the fingerprint database was expanded.
ArborYpsi Law Takeaways
There are so many wrongfully convicted inmates that have been sentenced to years if not life in prison. The use of DNA and now fingerprints is a great, factual tool that can free so many victims. It is tragic that people like Williams had to forfeit so much of their lives before being acquitted of their crimes. However, hopefully, cases like William’s will encourage other prosecutors and defense attorney’s to utilize fingerprint technology.
Call us at 734-883-9584
Call Sam Bernstein at 734-883-9584 or e-mail at bernstein@arborypsilaw.com.
Sam Bernstein is a Washtenaw County Criminal Attorney.
ArborYpsi Law is located at 2750 Carpenter Rd #2 Ann Arbor, MI 48108.
Read More:
- Michigan Cyberbullying Laws Go Into Effect
- Could Michigan Lower Its Legal Limit to .05?
- Supreme Court Ruling Could Limit Fines in Criminal Cases
- Congress Discusses Requiring Cars to Have Ignition Interlock Devices
Have you been wrongfully convicted of a crime?
If you have been accused or charged with a crime you did not commit do not hesitate to contact ArborYpsi Law. Do not plead to something that you know you had no part in. Sam Bernstein, criminal defense attorney, will take your case all the way to trial to prove your innocence. ArborYpsi Law also specializes in OWI charges, assault and battery, animal cruelty, retail fraud, home invasion, drug possession, sexual assault, license restorations, traffic tickets, expungements and domestic assault. Call Sam Bernstein, a criminal defense attorney, today to assist with your legal needs. We are based in Washtenaw county however, we will travel to Brighton, Jackson, Adrian, Canton, Wyandotte, among other cities in Metro Detroit to represent you.