Fernando Bermudez
Speaking topics: Eyewitness misidentification, Official misconduct, Race
My Story
In 2009, Fernando Bermudez had his conviction overturned after spending 18 years in prison for a murder he did not commit.
In 1991, Mr. Bermudez became a suspect in the murder of a teenager outside of a nightclub in New York City after an eyewitness picked him out in a police photo lineup. Despite four alibi witnesses and no physical or forensic evidence linking him to the crime, he was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 23 years to life in prison. The following year, all witnesses recanted their testimony.
It was not until 2009 that a judge overturned Mr. Bermudez’s conviction on “actual innocence” grounds based on police and prosecutorial misconduct. Now a passionate advocate for criminal legal reform, Mr. Bermudez shares his experience and inspiring words with audiences around the world. He is also working on a book about his ordeal.