A Disappointing Decision and a Renewed Call for Reform

06.18.09

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 today to deny DNA testing in the case of Innocence Project client William Osborne, who is seeking tests that could prove his innocence of a 1993 Alaska rape. The court ultimately ruled that the finality of a conviction is more important than making sure the right person was convicted.

Today’s decision is deeply disappointing and flawed, but it will have a limited impact because most cases are resolved at the local or state level. One effect of the decision will be to bring new urgency to the movement to ensure that all prisoners in all states with valid claims of innocence have access to DNA testing that can prove their innocence.

Please take action today and

sign the Innocence Project petition for DNA testing access

.


Download the full Supreme Court brief and other materials from the Osborne case here

, and read a sample of today’s media coverage below.

New York Times:

Justices Rule Inmates Don’t Have Right to DNA Tests

CBS News Court Watch:

Court Content to Follow, Not Lead, On DNA Testing

NPR:

Court Rules Convicts Have No Right To DNA Tests

Associated Press:

High Court Says Convicted Lack Right to DNA Testing

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