Overview
This investigative report examines the case of Khalid Baker, an Australian boxer convicted of murder at 18, despite another individual's confession. The story explores questions of witness credibility, potential racial bias, legal technicalities, and Baker’s ongoing efforts to clear his name after serving 13 years in prison.
Background of the Incident
- Khalid Baker, a promising young boxer, attended a warehouse party in Melbourne in 2005 where a violent brawl occurred.
- During the fight, 22-year-old Albert Snowball died after falling out of a window.
- Khalid was the designated driver and tried to intervene in the fight but maintained he never reached the upper landing where the fatal altercation took place.
Legal Proceedings and Evidence
- Both Khalid Baker and his friend LM were charged with murder; LM confessed in his first police interview that he was responsible.
- LM was acquitted despite the confession, while Khalid was found guilty and sentenced to 17 years.
- Key evidence was based on inconsistent eyewitness accounts with no forensic proof; Black and white witnesses provided conflicting testimonies.
- Khalid could not use LM’s confession during his defense due to legal rules then in place.
- Racial bias and witness misidentification are suggested as contributing factors in Khalid’s conviction.
Life During and After Incarceration
- Khalid trained as a boxer while in prison, holding onto the hope of clearing his name and resuming his career.
- He endured personal hardships, including being stabbed and learning of his mother’s cancer diagnosis during incarceration.
- Post-release, Khalid faces challenges due to his criminal record; he remains on parole and seeks public understanding of his story.
Ongoing Campaign for Exoneration
- The Innocence Initiative at RMIT University has taken on Khalid’s case, submitting a petition for mercy to the Victorian Attorney General.
- Khalid shares his story with students and community groups, emphasizing his innocence and quest for justice.
- He recently became the Victorian cruiserweight boxing champion, symbolizing perseverance but recognizing true freedom depends on legal exoneration.
Decisions
- Khalid refused to plead guilty to a crime he says he did not commit, even when offered reduced charges.
- LM attempted to plead guilty to manslaughter, but the offer was contingent on Khalid also pleading guilty.
Action Items
- TBD – Attorney General: Decide on Khalid Baker’s petition for mercy and potential referral to the Court of Appeal.