'Sing Sing' Actor JJ Velazquez Exonerated After Nearly 24 Years in Prison for Wrongful Murder Conviction

Sep 30, 2024, 06:48 PM

Jon-Adrian 'JJ' Velazquez, an actor known for his role in the film 'Sing Sing,' has been officially exonerated of a wrongful murder conviction after serving nearly 24 years in prison. Velazquez was convicted in 1998 for the murder of a retired New York police officer, a crime he consistently maintained he did not commit. The exoneration comes after a New York judge vacated the conviction and dismissed the case on Monday. During his time in Sing Sing prison, Velazquez became a prominent advocate for justice reform, helping others seek their freedom. His case gained significant attention following a 'Dateline' special that launched a crusade to overturn his conviction. Velazquez had been granted clemency before starring in the movie 'Sing Sing.' The courtroom was filled with emotional scenes as Velazquez was formally cleared, with supporters applauding and shedding tears.