The Dallas News yesterday
published the sad and telling story of David Pope, the "charter member" among Dallas' DNA exonerees who was released from prison in 2001 after spending 15 years inside for a rape he did not commit. Like many exonerees, he's struggled to reintegrate and still suffers from the damage done by his wrongful conviction.
I think the most important thing pointed out by the article is the lack of state support afterward. While I understand that a normal probation cycle just can't be done with someone whose freedom can't legally be restricted, much more needs to be done to help these people. They deserve much more support than any parolee/probationer. Monetary restitution which itself is paltry compared to the injury inflicted just doesn't cut it.
ReplyDeleteThe DA who wrongly and mistakenly convicted him ought to be housing, supporting, educating and employing him.
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Sure is fun getting those false convictions, but you ought to have to pay for them when they come apart.
This is so very sad. These guys should be given whatever help they need by the state as part of restitution. Money doesn't fix a darn thing.
ReplyDeleteI agree. The state of the faulty prosecutor should aid in the reintegration and structuring of this man. And all others. I think even when someone has done time and then takes the plea...because even that is a hoax. Mandatory counseling and at least 6 months of a mentor of training should be given to those released.
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