Overview
This transcript details the investigation, prosecution, and trial of Brenton Butler, a 15-year-old accused of murdering a tourist, Maryann Stevens, in Jacksonville, Florida. The narrative explores the flaws in police procedures, issues with eyewitness identification, the alleged coerced confession, the defense's efforts, and ultimately Brenton Butler's acquittal, followed by the identification of the real perpetrator.
Crime and Initial Investigation
- Maryann Stevens was shot and killed at a motel; eyewitness James Stevens gave a description of a skinny black male in dark shorts.
- Brenton Butler was stopped by police solely because he matched the general description and was black, in the area.
- He was taken for a show-up identification by Mr. Stevens, who identified him as the shooter from close range and again in court.
- Police failed to conduct thorough neighborhood canvassing or search for physical evidence in Butler's home.
Issues with Police Process and Investigation
- Lead detectives admitted to not interviewing key witnesses or Butler's parents thoroughly.
- No search warrant was executed for Butler’s home despite opportunities to seek further physical evidence.
- Forensics and alternative investigative avenues (e.g., canvassing neighbors, fingerprinting dumpsters) were neglected.
- Police focused on obtaining a confession from Butler rather than following up on evidence.
Interrogation and Alleged Coercion
- Butler described being physically assaulted and racially taunted by Detective Glover during a prolonged interrogation.
- His confession was written by detectives, not in his own words, and Butler claimed it was signed under duress.
- Detectives denied using force or threats during their testimony.
Alibi and Defense Evidence
- Butler's family testified consistently that he was at home during the time of the murder.
- The defense highlighted inconsistencies in the eyewitness account, flawed police process, and lack of physical evidence against Butler.
- The defense emphasized that Butler had never previously been seen with a gun or the described hat.
Trial Proceedings and Outcome
- Both prosecution and defense delivered detailed arguments regarding identification, confession, and reasonable doubt.
- The jury found Brenton Butler not guilty of all charges.
Subsequent Developments
- Post-trial, forensic evidence (a fingerprint on the purse) implicated Juan Curtis as the actual perpetrator, who later confessed.
- Criticism centered on police investigative shortcuts and reliance on confession rather than evidence.
Decisions
- Brenton Butler found not guilty of murder and armed robbery.
- Defense established reasonable doubt regarding identification and confession.
Action Items
- Post-trial – Jacksonville authorities: Process all evidence in the original case for new leads (fulfilled with forensic fingerprint match to Curtis).
Recommendations / Advice
- Law enforcement should avoid confirmation bias, conduct thorough and impartial investigations, and follow up on all physical and testimonial evidence.
- Procedures for eyewitness identification and interrogation of minors must adhere strictly to legal and ethical standards to prevent miscarriages of justice.