Monday’s ruling by a judge in Louisiana was that a man who had been trying to clear his name for over 40 years did not receive a fair trial in 1977. This ruling was made 44 years after Vincent Simmons, a 14-year-old boy, was convicted for attempted aggravated sexual rape.
Judge Bill Bennett ordered a fresh trial. However, the district attorney stated that he would not retry Simmons. Simmons is now free after spending decades in prison. This comes three days before Simmons turns 70.
Bennett stated Monday that he believes the time limitations were overcome by the allegations of new evidence, and in the interests of justice. He also said that he did not have an opinion on Simmons’ guilt or innocence.
Simmons has tried 16 times to obtain a new trial over the years, claiming that he was innocent and didn’t get a fair trial. After CBS News had uncovered new evidence, including potentially life-changing information, Simmons was brought to court Monday afternoon in Marksville. Simmons has tried for 30 years to get it heard by a judge.
Simmons discovered a medical exam report in which a doctor claimed that one of the victims was a virgin even though she had raped her. They were also examined by a doctor who found no evidence of sexual assault. Two weeks after the girls claimed they had been raped, the exam was done.
The testimony of the girls to the sheriff regarding their alleged attacker was another piece of evidence that was not heard by the jury. They claim they initially told police that they didn’t know his identity. However, the evidence shows that they later stated to police that he was Black. The record also shows that they claimed he looked like all Black people.
One defense attorney said that the testimony, which experts believe could be exonerating at trial, was not shared with the defense. However, prosecutors claim that Simmons’ defense team had full access to the entire prosecution file.
Justin Bonus, Simmons’ current attorney, spoke about his client’s mental state as he prepared to appear in court on Monday.
Bonus said that he was happy, thankful, and praying but didn’t know what would happen. Vincent is unique because he doesn’t seem angry. Vincent would be mad if he were mine. He isn’t angry. He forgives them, because he knows that vengeance isn’t his.
They were expected to also be present in courtroom Monday, the first time they have been to a Simmons court hearing since 1977.
They stated that they were the victims, and that Simmons is guilty.
