John Smith's Exoneration

Falsely Implicated 11/2/93 | Exonerated 9/24/12

John was just 18 years old when he was arrested for, and ultimately convicted of a murder he did not commit.

On the morning of September 9, 1993, Landu Mvuemba and DeAnthony Williams walked together to visit the scene of a gang-related shooting committed the night before near 17th Street and Rimpau Boulevard.  Without warning, Mvuemba heard the sound of gunfire.  He ran for cover but was shot.  

Smith's Case Timeline

Crime: 9/9/93

Photo Array: 11/2/93

Arrested: 12/6/93

* * *

 

Incriminating evidence: One belated identification

Defense: Alibi & misidentification

Trial:

Post-Conviction Investigation:

Habeas Petition:

 

Smith Case Documents

Police Investigation

  • Police Report
  • Landu Mvuemba's initial statement
  • Landu Mvuemba's preliminary hearing testimony

Trial Transcripts

  • Landu Mvuemba's testimony
  • John Smith's testimony

Appellate Records

  • Appellate's Opening Brief
  • Respondent's Brief
  • Appellate's Reply Brief