Exonerated: A History of the Innocence Movement

The innocence movement has gained attention due to documentaries like Making a Murderer, Serial, and the West Memphis Three, which have led to the release of 1,800 people who were convicted of crimes they did not commit. This movement has been driven by federal and state governments, lawyers, police, and advocacy organizations, and is focused on preventing wrongful convictions through new laws, practices, and advocacy. Exonerated provides an in-depth look at the history of this movement, arguing that scientific, legal, and cultural developments have led to a widespread understanding that new technology and renewed investigative diligence can catch the guilty and free the innocent.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 304 pages
\n Publication date: 05 February 2019
\n Publisher: New York University Press
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The fascinating story behind the Innocence Movement's quest for justice is a testament to the power of truth and the pursuit of justice. Documentaries such as "Making a Murderer," the first season of "Serial," and the highly publicized case of the West Memphis Three have captivated millions of people and brought attention to the issue of wrongful convictions. This interest is well-founded, as over 1,800 individuals have been exonerated in recent decades after being wrongfully convicted of crimes they did not commit.

In response to these exonerations, federal and state governments have passed laws to prevent such injustices. Lawyers and police have also changed their practices, and advocacy organizations have multiplied across the country. Together, these efforts are commonly referred to as the "innocence movement."

Exonerated, a groundbreaking documentary, provides an in-depth look at the history of this movement through interviews with key leaders such as Barry Scheck and Rob Warden, as well as archival and field research into the major cases that brought awareness to wrongful convictions in the United States.

Robert Norris, the film's director, delves into how and why the innocence movement took hold. He argues that while the movement did not begin as an organized campaign, scientific, legal, and cultural developments led to a widespread understanding that new technology and renewed investigative diligence could both catch the guilty and free the innocent.

Exonerated reveals the rich background story to this complex movement, shedding light on the tireless efforts of activists, lawyers, and journalists who have dedicated their lives to fighting for the rights of the wrongfully convicted. The film serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of due process, the value of evidence, and the need for justice to be served for all.

As we continue to grapple with the issue of wrongful convictions, Exonerated provides a valuable perspective and a call to action. It reminds us that every person accused of a crime deserves a fair trial, and that the pursuit of truth and justice should never be compromised. We must continue to support the innocence movement and work towards a society where every person is guaranteed the right to a fair and just outcome.

\n Weight: 454g\n
Dimension: 153 x 231 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781479821990\n \n