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Actor JJ Velazquez Exonerated in 1998 Murder Case After Nearly 24 Years in Prison

Sep 30, 2024, 03:49 PM

Jon-Adrian 'JJ' Velazquez, an actor known for his role in 'Sing Sing,' has been exonerated after serving nearly 24 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. Velazquez was wrongfully convicted in 1998 for the fatal shooting of a retired New York police officer. A New York judge vacated the conviction and dismissed the case on Monday, following a decade-long crusade initiated by a 'Dateline' special. Velazquez, who became a symbol for justice reform during his incarceration, expressed his emotions in court as he hugged friends and family. Prosecutors now acknowledge that he did not commit the crime.