Benjamin Spencer, a Texas man wrongfully convicted of murder in the 1980s and spending 34 years in prison, was exonerated on Thursday. Spencer expressed his happiness and excitement for finally being released, despite not being able to recover the lost years. The dismissal of an aggravated robbery charge against him was granted by a Dallas County judge, following the revelation of false testimonies and evidence withholding during his trials. Prosecutors failed to provide exculpatory evidence, including fingerprints, that would have excluded Spencer from the crime.
After his conviction was overturned in 1987 and a subsequent trial led to a life sentence for aggravated robbery, Spencer was released on bond in 2021. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned his conviction earlier this year, based on the violation of his constitutional rights and lack of a fair trial. The Conviction Integrity Unit found no credible evidence connecting him to the crime.
As one of the 60 longest-serving individuals to be declared innocent, Spencer is eligible for compensation under Texas law. He can receive a lump sum payment for each year of incarceration, as well as an annuity. Spencer’s attorney, Cheryl Wattley, stated that he is focused on living honorably and serving as an inspiration for others. Dallas County Criminal District Attorney John Creuzot expressed relief and humility in correcting the injustice faced by Spencer. Wattley praised Creuzot for reevaluating the discredited evidence and leading to Spencer’s exoneration.
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