State Reps. Williams and Rogers introduce Legislation to Modify Wrongful Imprisonment Law

COLUMBUS - State Representatives Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) and Elgin Rogers Jr. (D-Toledo) today introduced new legislation that works to modify current Ohio Law for individuals who are wrongfully imprisoned.

"No one who has been wrongfully imprisoned should be denied the opportunity to seek justice and compensation simply because of a technicality in the law," said Rep. Williams. "By updating Ohio's statute, we ensure that juveniles, individuals who entered Alford pleas, and those who received pardons are treated fairly under the law. This legislation is about correcting past wrongs and bringing Ohio in line with best practices across the nation."

Under Ohio's current statute, if an individual was convicted of a crime, and later had that conviction overturned and the charges against dismissed, they are eligible to apply for compensation. However, the following three groups of people are excluded from applying:

• Incarcerated juveniles.
• Adults who took Alford pleas; and
• Adults who received a gubernatorial pardon.
  

This legislation would update current law to allow these groups to apply for compensation, putting Ohio in line with best practices of other states across the country.

This bill awaits a number and committee assignment.