jt
---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Sun, 17 May 1998 16:28:03 -0500
From: jmccorke@udel.edu
Does anyone know of any experts on coerced confessions working in the
Northeast (preferably Phila-NY corridor)? I've recently become involved in
a compelling murder case involving a 17 year old who went through a total
of 10 (if memory serves) interrogations without a court-app't advocate or
custodial guardian present. During last interrogation (some 36 hours
later), def. confessed after Philadelphia police repeatedly told him if he
confessed he could go home and avoid being placed in custody with adult
males. He was convicted on the basis of the confession and statements of
his co-defendents (who received considerably lesser sentences in exchange
for their testimony). By the way, the prosecution did not have a murder
weapon, finger prints, or any other physical evidence linking def. to crime.
Currently, case is before 3rd Circuit--also def. going for clemency
petition. Pardons board appears persuaded but hung up on the issue of the
confession. Review and testimony of an expert on coerced confessions would
be critical in assisting the board make its decision. Defendent has served
20+ years and the victim's immediate family has written letters to parole
board pleading for his release.
Please send any info. directly to me (jmccorke@udel.edu) rather than
posting to list.
Thanks,
Jill McCorkel
Jill McCorkel
Center for Drug & Alcohol Studies
77 E Main St.
University of Delaware
Newark, DE 19716
302/831-6107
302/831-3307FAX