Texas man exonerated after spending nearly 34 years in prison for wrongful conviction
SUMMARY
Benjamin Spencer, a Texas man wrongfully convicted of murder in 1987, was exonerated on Thursday after spending nearly 34 years in prison. A Dallas County judge dismissed the aggravated robbery charge against Spencer, who was accused of participating in the carjacking and death of Jeffrey Young. Spencer, who consistently maintained his innocence, voiced his relief and gratitude at his exoneration, saying, “I’m just excited that this day has finally come. His conviction was overturned earlier this year by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, citing constitutional violations, including false testimony and withheld evidence. Dallas County Criminal District Attorney John Creuzot acknowledged the miscarriage of justice, while Assistant DA Cynthia Garza noted there was no credible evidence linking Spencer to the crime. Under Texas law, Spencer is eligible for compensation for his wrongful imprisonment.
