May 30, 2008
by Nick Petrie
Jeffery Deskovic grew up in maximum security prison. Arrested at sixteen years old, Deskovic was convicted of rape and murder on a coerced confession after 7 ½ hours of grueling interrogation. He was sentenced to fifteen years to life despite the judge’s comment, “maybe you are innocent.” While Deskovic saw his friends go off to college, get married and start careers and families, he was stuck behind bars fighting for justice.
The Innocence Project heard his pleas and took up his cause. DNA evidence proved to be crucial. After more advanced methods for DNA analysis were developed it became clear that Deskovic was unconnected to the crime. Another man, already serving a prison sentence for another murder, confessed to the crime. On September 22, 2006, Deskovic was released. But, despite being free, he faces many challenges.
Jeff’s formative years were stolen; today he struggles with the basics of everyday life. His friends have grown up without him, his family has been ripped apart by the struggle of his legal battle and it seems as if he has been forced into a new world on the outside that he cannot understand.
On June 3, at 7 p.m. in the Horace Greeley High School Academic Commons, Amnesty International will be hosting Jeff Deskovic at our annual Ethnic Dinner. Amnesty International is very grateful to New Yorkers Against the Death Penalty, whose support made it possible for Deskovic to join us. Admission and food are free, but donations are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there.
Nick Petrie is a senior at Horace Greeley High School.
Copyright 2008 NewCastleNOW.org