In a landmark development, the convictions of Eric Smokes and David Warren, two childhood friends falsely accused of the 1987 murder of French tourist Jean Casse in New York City, were overturned this week. Despite serving over 20 years in prison for a crime they did not commit, recent revelations and a reexamination of the case have finally brought justice to the wronged duo.

The Wrongful Convictions

Eric Smokes, now 56, and David Warren, 53, were convicted in 1987 for the murder of Jean Casse, who was brutally attacked and killed near Times Square on New Year’s Day. Despite maintaining their innocence and claiming to have only been near 48th Street to witness the ball drop, both were sentenced to 15 years to life in prison based on witness testimonies that placed them at the crime scene.

Years of Wrongful Imprisonment

Smokes, 19 at the time, and Warren, 16, faced years of incarceration as they fought against the convictions. While Warren was paroled in 2007, Smokes had to wait until 2011 to regain his freedom. The case drew attention as it unfolded, with reports from TLNA New York highlighting the contentious trial and the discrepancies in the evidence presented.

Witness Testimonies Recanted

In a turn of events, teenage witnesses who had testified against Smokes and Warren later recanted their statements, revealing that they were treated as suspects by the police and pressured to provide false information. Additionally, alibis presented by the wrongly convicted duo were corroborated by their friends, casting doubt on the accuracy of the initial trial.

Reinvestigation and Overturning of Convictions

Despite a motion to dismiss the convictions being denied in 2020, the case underwent a thorough reinvestigation in 2021 under the newly established Post-Conviction Justice Unit led by District Attorney Alvin Bragg. After discovering significant flaws in the initial investigation, Bragg recommended the overturning of both Smokes and Warren’s convictions.

Judge’s Decision and Exoneration

On Wednesday, State Supreme Court Judge Stephen Antignani officially vacated the convictions, bringing an end to the prolonged legal battle for Smokes and Warren. The decision not only recognizes the miscarriage of justice but also clears the names of the two friends who lost decades of their lives due to an unjust conviction.

Moving Forward: Intentions for Civil Lawsuit

Following their exoneration, reports from NBC New York indicate that both Warren and Smokes plan to file a civil lawsuit seeking justice for the years of wrongful imprisonment. This marks a pivotal step in holding accountable those responsible for the flawed investigation and the subsequent miscarriage of justice.

A Call for Equal Justice

District Attorney Alvin Bragg expressed gratitude for the unyielding advocacy of Smokes and Warren and emphasized the importance of reevaluating old convictions. The case serves as a reminder that it is never too late to ensure the integrity of the legal system and strive for equal justice under the law.

Seeking Redress: A Long-Awaited Victory for Eric Smokes and David Warren

The exoneration of Eric Smokes and David Warren not only rectifies a grave injustice but also underscores the resilience required to combat wrongful convictions. As they pursue a civil lawsuit, their story serves as a poignant reminder that justice delayed should not be justice denied.