DNA Exonerations 1989-2014: Review of Data and Findings from the First 25 Years

Abstract

During the last quarter century there have been 325 DNA exonerations in the United States (1989-2014). This 25-year mark provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on what we have learned about wrongful convictions and how these cases can inform the conversation around criminal justice policies and practices. As such, this report offers a first-time comprehensive review of data collected by the Innocence Project on DNA exonerations. It is designed to be a tool to better understand what these wrongful convictions involved and to promote more discourse and action on the issues across multiple arenas (academia, policy, litigation, journalism and the public).