Judge Throws Out Murder Conviction, Citing Incompetence and Suppressed Evidence
A judge’s ruling has brought a glimmer of hope for Sandra Hemme, a Missouri woman who spent 43 years behind bars for a murder she didn’t commit. Judge Ryan Horsman overturned Hemme’s conviction on Friday, citing evidence suggesting her innocence and misconduct by law enforcement.
Years of Injustice Culminate in Freedom
Hemme was convicted in 1980 for the killing of Patricia Jeschke. Attorneys with the New York-based Innocence Project argued that Hemme, a psychiatric patient at the time, was pressured into a false confession and that crucial evidence was withheld by authorities. Judge Horsman’s decision acknowledges this, stating that Hemme has established “evidence of actual innocence.”
Defense Paints Picture of Incompetence and Manipulation
Hemme’s lawyers allege that her initial questioning was conducted while she was heavily sedated and unable to provide a coherent defense. Furthermore, they claim authorities disregarded inconsistencies in her statements and failed to disclose evidence implicating a different suspect, Michael Holman, a police officer who reportedly attempted to use the victim’s credit card.
Judge’s Ruling Blames Police Officer, Frees Hemme
Judge Horsman’s written decision highlights the lack of physical evidence linking Hemme to the crime. Conversely, the judge finds evidence connecting Holman to the murder scene. Based on these findings, the judge ordered Hemme’s release within 30 days unless prosecutors choose to retry her case.
43 Years Lost, Fight for Justice Continues
Hemme’s attorneys are seeking her immediate release and vow to continue their efforts to have the charges dismissed entirely. This case marks a potential record for the longest time a woman has been wrongfully incarcerated for murder.
Brutal Crime Launched Decades-Long Ordeal
The case began in November 1980 with the discovery of Patricia Jeschke’s murdered body. Detectives pursued various leads until Hemme, seemingly unconnected to the case, entered the picture weeks later. Her lawyers argue that law enforcement’s focus shifted to Hemme despite a lack of credible evidence, ultimately leading to her wrongful conviction.
