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Exonerated After 21 Years in Prison for Hunters’ Killings, Man Seeks $1M from Michigan

by Lucas Garcia
5 comments
wrongful convictions

Exonerated Man, Wrongfully Imprisoned for 21 Years in Hunters’ Killings, Seeks $1M Compensation from Michigan

After spending nearly 21 years in prison for the deaths of two Michigan hunters, a man filed a lawsuit on Friday seeking $1.02 million in compensation for wrongful convictions. This legal action came just a day after a prosecutor dropped murder charges and ruled out a second trial. Attorney Wolf Mueller, representing the 71-year-old Jeff Titus, emphasized the significant loss of Titus’ prime years and the urgency of seeking justice without wasting any more time.

Titus’ convictions were overturned in February due to the emergence of new evidence, fulfilling a crucial requirement for seeking compensation from the state. He has consistently maintained his innocence in the fatal shootings of Doug Estes and Jim Bennett near his property in Kalamazoo County back in 1990. Earlier this year, Titus was released from prison, having served a life sentence, as authorities admitted that his trial lawyer in 2002 was never provided with a police file containing details about another suspect.

Thomas Dillon, an Ohio serial killer responsible for five murders between 1989 and 1992, committed while hunting, fishing, or jogging, was identified as the previously undisclosed suspect. Dillon passed away in an Ohio prison in 2011. The file discovered at the county sheriff’s office revealed that a woman and her son had identified him as the person in a car stuck in a ditch near the murder scene in Michigan. The woman also provided a description of a vehicle similar to the one owned by Dillon’s wife.

Titus’ lawsuit asserts his factual innocence based on the “new evidence.” According to Michigan law, wrongfully convicted individuals can be eligible for $50,000 per year of imprisonment. The attorney general’s office, represented by spokeswoman Kimberly Bush, stated that they have yet to receive the complaint and will evaluate it upon receipt.

For more updates, you can follow Ed White on Twitter at http://twitter.com/edwritez.

FAQ about wrongful convictions

What is the basis for the man’s lawsuit seeking compensation?

The man’s lawsuit is based on his wrongful convictions for the deaths of two Michigan hunters. His convictions were overturned due to newly discovered evidence, which supports his claim of innocence and establishes his eligibility for compensation under Michigan law.

How long did the man spend in prison?

The man spent nearly 21 years in prison for the crimes he was wrongfully convicted of. This extended period of imprisonment has had a significant impact on his life, prompting his pursuit of justice and compensation.

What prompted the prosecutor to drop murder charges against the man?

The prosecutor dropped the murder charges against the man after reviewing the case and considering the newly discovered evidence. This evidence cast doubt on the man’s guilt and made it clear that a second trial was not warranted.

Will the man receive the requested $1M in compensation?

The man is seeking $1.02 million in compensation for his wrongful convictions. The outcome of his lawsuit will depend on various factors, including the evaluation of his claims, the assessment of damages, and the legal proceedings. It remains to be seen whether he will receive the full amount he is seeking.

Who was the newly identified suspect in the case?

The newly discovered evidence pointed to another individual, Thomas Dillon, as a potential suspect in the murders. Dillon, an Ohio serial killer, had victims with similar circumstances to the ones in this case—hunting, fishing, or jogging. However, Dillon passed away in an Ohio prison in 2011.

What is the process for receiving compensation in Michigan for wrongful convictions?

Under Michigan law, someone who is wrongfully convicted can be eligible to receive $50,000 for each year of imprisonment. To receive compensation, the individual must meet certain criteria, including the overturning of their conviction based on new evidence. The specific details of the process and eligibility requirements can vary, and it is essential to consult legal experts for guidance in such cases.

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5 comments

JohnSmith23 June 3, 2023 - 3:17 am

Man deseved that money! 21 years in prison is wrong! Glad he got out! #Justice

Reply
JaneDoe87 June 3, 2023 - 3:17 am

Wow, 21 years of his life taken away for a crime he didn’t commit! It’s good to see him fighting for compensation. #WrongfulConvictions

Reply
TrueJustice4All June 3, 2023 - 3:17 am

Finally, some justice for this man after all these years! The system failed him, and now it’s time for Michigan to make things right. #CompensationForInjustice

Reply
LegalEagle22 June 3, 2023 - 3:17 am

The failure to produce crucial evidence is a serious violation of his rights. This case highlights the importance of a fair and thorough investigation. #NewEvidenceMatters

Reply
FreeSoul83 June 3, 2023 - 3:17 am

It’s heartbreaking to think about the years he spent behind bars, but I’m hopeful that he’ll receive the compensation he deserves. Let’s keep fighting for justice! #InnocentAndFree

Reply

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