What is exoneration for individuals wrongly convicted of a crime?

The Ohio Innocence Project at UC Law

The Ohio Innocence Project (OIP) at UC Law was established in 2003 with the primary goal of freeing individuals in Ohio who have been wrongfully convicted of crimes. In addition to its efforts in securing freedom for these individuals, OIP is actively involved in promoting and advocating for long-term criminal justice reform through legislative measures. Furthermore, OIP aims to raise public awareness about systemic issues within the justice system and mobilize support for necessary changes.

OIP-u: A Network of Student Groups

OIP has also launched OIP-u (Ohio Innocence Project University), which serves as a network of student groups across colleges in the state. This initiative allows students to actively contribute to the cause of justice and innocence. Through OIP-u, young minds are empowered to make a difference and work towards a more just society.

Impact and Achievements

Over the years, OIP has successfully helped 42 individuals regain their freedom. These clients collectively endured more than 800 years of imprisonment for crimes they did not commit. This remarkable track record highlights the dedication and effectiveness of OIP’s work in rectifying wrongful convictions and restoring justice.

Exoneration Process

Tara Rosnell, Chair of OIP’s Board of Advocates, recently spoke with WYSO, a public radio station based in Yellow Springs, Ohio, about the process of exoneration for individuals who have been wrongly convicted. According to Rosnell, the first crucial step in an exoneration is the discovery of new evidence that goes beyond what was presented or available during the trial. This can be challenging, especially when significant time has passed since the crime occurred. However, if successful, OIP works towards overturning the original verdict and securing justice for the innocent.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators in the Article

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

The article discusses the work of the Ohio Innocence Project (OIP) in freeing individuals who have been wrongly convicted of crimes they didn’t commit. This aligns with SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

2. Specific Targets under SDG 16 Identified Based on the Article’s Content:

1. Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
2. Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.
3. Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels.

The OIP’s work in freeing individuals who have been wrongly convicted contributes to the achievement of Target 16.3 by promoting the rule of law and ensuring equal access to justice. Additionally, their advocacy for criminal justice reform and education of the public align with Target 16.6 and Target 16.7, respectively.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress towards the Identified Targets:

• Number of individuals freed through the work of the Ohio Innocence Project.
• Number of years collectively spent behind bars by the clients of the Ohio Innocence Project.
• Legislation passed or advocated for by the Ohio Innocence Project to promote criminal justice reform.
• Level of public awareness and sensitivity to systemic problems in the justice system.

The number of individuals freed and the number of years spent behind bars by the clients of the Ohio Innocence Project can serve as indicators to measure progress towards Target 16.3. The legislation developed and advocated for by the project can be used as an indicator for Target 16.6. The level of public awareness and sensitivity to systemic problems in the justice system can be measured through surveys or public opinion polls to assess progress towards Target 16.7.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: uc.edu