A bill abolishing the Orleans Parish clerk of criminal court, to which Calvin Duncan was elected after his exoneration, now awaits the governor's signature.
Duncan, exonerated in 2021 after nearly 30 years in prison, was set to take office May 4, but lawmakers cite government efficiency for dissolving the position.
Exonerees nationwide see Duncan's case as highlighting persistent stigma and barriers to employment, with advocates calling for more robust state support and legislative reforms to aid the wrongfully convicted.
An exoneree was elected to reform a court. Why did lawmakers vote to eliminate his job before he could start?
Beyond compensation, what new laws are states creating to help the wrongfully convicted rebuild their lives?
Why do innocent people freed from prison often receive less government support than guilty parolees?
Official misconduct is a factor in most exonerations. What accountability do those responsible actually face?
How can a person's accent or dialect contribute to them being wrongfully convicted of a crime?