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Our Purpose
THE PROBLEM: Despite the many strengths of our justice system, recent advances in DNA testing confirm that people are convicted
of crimes they did not commit.
Since 1989, post-conviction DNA has exonerated
252 innocent people. More than 300 other inmates have been exonerated by other types of evidence in cases where DNA testing
was not available.
Our communities suffer when the wrong person is convicted. Not only does a mistaken
criminal conviction destroy the lives and families of those incarcerated, it also denies the crime victim justice and leaves
the real offender at large, endangering public safety. Such injustices do further harm when the public
and juries lose faith in the criminal justice system.
THE
PATH FORWARD: To
date, nine states have convened commissions to investigate the causes of mistaken criminal convictions and recommend ways
to avoid such errors. Here in Washington, this work is being done by the Integrity of Justice Project.
The Integrity of Justice Project works with Washington’s law schools, prosecutors, law enforcement,
defense attorneys, judges, and others to identify and reform practices that contribute to the conviction of innocent people.
The Project also sponsors the Norm Maleng Integrity of Justice Speakers Series
in communities across Washington State to explore ways citizens, police, and prosecutors might work together to prevent practices
that can lead to mistaken criminal convictions.
Please
support our efforts by making a tax-deductible contribution to the Integrity of Justice Project. Any amount of pledge or donation is greatly appreciated.
Please Donate Today!
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