Rep. Richmond Celebrates Release of Damon Thibodeaux

Statement

Today, Rep. Richmond issued the following statement in response to the exoneration of Damon Thibodeaux. Mr. Thibodeaux is the 300th person exonerated using D.N.A. evidence in the United States:

"I want to commend the Innocence Project for two decades of service to the wrongfully convicted," said Rep. Richmond. "Their collaboration with the Capital Post-Conviction Project of Louisiana, the American Civil Liberties Union, and attorneys throughout the country have brought hundreds of wrongfully convicted home to their families and prevented an untold number crimes by identifying the real perpetrator in 149 cases. These dedicated attorneys bring our Constitution to life, guaranteeing that every person receives due process under the law. Their work strengthens our society's trust in the legal system."

"It's inexcusable that any person should have to spend a single day in prison for a crime they did not commit, but this case is a great example of cooperation between law enforcement, the district attorney's office, and the attorneys representing Mr. Thibodeaux to free an innocent man. I hope that all parties can continue to work hand-in-hand to identify those wrongfully convicted, speed their return to society, and compensate them appropriately for time served."

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