Possible Wrongful Convictions In IL To Be Investigated Under New Unit

The unit will independently review past convictions in partnership with local state's attorneys, police and other stakeholders. Anyone incarcerated in a state prison who was convicted by a state court of a forcible felony as an adult can petition for post-conviction review as long as they have new and credible evidence, according to a news release from Raoul's office.

"Wrongful convictions destroy lives, diminish faith in our criminal justice system, and put victims and the general public at risk, as true perpetrators of crimes are able to escape punishment," Raoul said in the news release. "As a career prosecutor and the state's top law enforcement official, I look forward to the critical work this unit will do in collaboration with state's attorneys and stakeholders across the state to ensure integrity in convictions."

Claims of misconduct by prosecutors, defense attorneys, law enforcement or other government employees uncovered during unit investigations will be reported to the authorities, according to the news release.

The unit will also collect and study data on the causes of wrongful conviction in Illinois, the news release said.