A Springfield man was released from prison yesterday after being wrongfully incarcerated for four decades.
A Hampden County Judge overturned the 1985 conviction against Edward Wright after finding the prosecution withheld significant evidence and a detective gave false testimony.
Wright's release was the result of a ten-year effort by the New England Innocence Project, which said they hope to see him later fully exonerated.
“Whether or not the Commonwealth decides to retry my case, all I’ve ever wanted is to see it through so I can finally clear my name and be reunited with my family,” said Wright.. “I look forward to a jury hearing all the evidence in my case. After 41 years in prison – separated from my family and friends – I can now continue my fight in freedom. My release from prison is the first step in a long journey. I just want to heal and share what’s left of my life with those loved ones who are still alive."
However, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni released a statement disagreeing with the ruling and said his office is evaluating its next steps, which could include a retrial.
"We disagree with the decision to allow the motion for new trial, which was the defendant’s sixth bite at the apple. But, it is important to note, the very judge who allowed the motion stated in his decision that “the incriminating evidence against the defendant was quite strong”, and “despite the considerable incriminating evidence against the defendant, the court finds…[he] has met his relatively low burden…which might have affected the outcome of the trial, " Gulluni said.
(Photo: New England Innocence Project)