Instructions for Using the Registry

The table below shows all individual exonerations. By default, the table is set to show exonerations from 1989 through the present. Check "Pre-1989" in the Exoneration Era filter to view Pre-1989 exonerations. Use the filters on the left to search for exonerations with particular criteria. Hover over the symbols for explanations of filters or columns. Use the Keyword Search box to filter for cases that contain those keywords in the narrative summary.

If multiple keywords are entered, the search will show cases in which the narrative contains ANY of those words. Since the table is filtered to 1989 through the present by default, a search for the name of someone who was exonerated before 1989 will not produce results until the Date of Exoneration is adjusted, or the Pre-1989 filter is selected. Once filters have been set, select the column headings you wish to display, and sort the table by whatever column heading you choose by clicking on the column heading. For more detailed instructions, see Understanding the Registry, under "About" at the top right of the Home Page. Note: 1989 was the year of the first DNA exoneration and the dawn of a new era of wrongful convictions. The Registry used to separate the two - pre and post 1989 exonerations - into two separate and distinct databases. They are now synthesized to reflect the entire body of exoneration data. If you wish to view exonerations prior to 1989, check "Pre-1989" in the Exoneration Era filter. Read Less
Total records: 6
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Name State County Convicted Exonerated Crime Sentence Term of Years Years lost Age Race Sex Date of Release Posting Date
Ayala, David Illinois Cook 1982 2023 Murder Life without parole 41 18 Hispanic Male 2023 12-21-2023
Montanez, Jose Illinois Cook 1994 2016 Murder Term of Years 55 years 22 25 Hispanic Male 2016 07-23-2016
Rosario, Adolfo Illinois Cook 1991 2022 Murder Term of Years 57 years 28 25 Hispanic Male 2019 03-12-2024
Serrano, Armando Illinois Cook 1994 2016 Murder Term of Years 55 years 22 20 Hispanic Male 2016 07-23-2016
Soto, James Illinois Cook 1982 2023 Murder Life without parole 41 20 Hispanic Male 2023 12-21-2023
Velez, John Illinois Cook 2002 2017 Murder Term of Years 55 years 15 18 Hispanic Male 2017 12-22-2017