Exoneration Journey - James Harden Jr. and Jonathan Bar

Background

Speaker: James Harden Jr. & Jonathan Bar
Conviction: Wrongful conviction of murder and rape of Katrice Matthews
Time Spent in Prison:
- James: 20 years
- Jonathan: 15 years
- Marvin: 11 years and 3 months
- Unnamed Individual: 20 years, 9 months, 5 days
System Failure: The justice system failed, leading to their wrongful imprisonment.

Real Rapist Confession: The real attacker confessed to attacking Katrice Matthews alone.
Faulty Identification: The victim was shown multiple mug shots in black and white, except for one colored ID picture (James Harden Jr.), leading to a misidentification.
Bite Mark Evidence: Odontologist identified the bite mark as matching one of the accused's teeth.
DNA Evidence Exclusion: Semen found did not match any of the convicted persons, yet the prosecution continued due to strong co-defendant statements.

Emotional Challenges: Many appeals were filed but continuously denied. Emotional support was key.
Counselor's Help: A counselor recommended reaching out to an organization that helps wrongfully convicted individuals.
Innocence Project Involvement: The organization provided significant support, leading to eventual DNA testing which excluded them from being the perpetrators.
Release:
- Overwhelmed with joy upon hearing the DNA test results.
- Relief and freedom experienced upon release.
- Personal moments of joy and family interactions after release.

Freedom after Long Time: Watching the sunrise as a free man was a profound experience.
Recognition: Crediting the aiding organization for freeing many individuals.
Gratitude: Thankfulness for the newfound freedom and the chance to rebuild lives outside prison.