LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — The Arkansas Supreme Court on Thursday said a judge wrongly denied a request for new genetic testing of crime scene evidence from the killing of three boys nearly 30 years ago.
In a 4-3 decision, the court reversed the 2022 ruling denying the request to test evidence from the 1993 crime scene where three 8-year-old boys were found brutally slain in a drainage ditch near West Memphis. The additional testing was sought by Damien Echols, one of the three men convicted in the slayings.
Echols, Jason Baldwin and Jesse Misskelley were convicted in 1994 but released in 2011 under a rarely used plea agreement that allowed them to maintain their innocence yet plead guilty in exchange for 18-year sentences and credit for time served.
“We appreciate the (Arkansas Supreme Court) giving this ruling and hope we can now once and for all solve this case, clear our names and find the person responsible for carrying out these horrendous crimes,” Echols said in a statement. “This is monumental.”
As Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes insists his 'dad bod' is 'great' for his NFL performance
Tokyo International Film Festival kicks off as China's Zhang Yimou wins lifetime award
Top 10 buzzwords in China in 2023
Dunhuang culture exhibition held in N China
The Arizona Coyotes are officially headed to Salt Lake City
Klauss, Bürki propel St. Louis City to 1
Tai Chi gains popularity in Dubai
Craft Project fair held in old Damascus, Syria
Browns' draft still affected by Deshaun Watson trade. Team without first
Top 10 buzzwords in China in 2023
Musicians pay tribute to Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts after death at 80
Dawn Staley and her NCAA champion South Carolina Gamecocks celebrated with parade and rally