The Intelligence from The Economist Lifesaver: meet a death-row detective
Dec 24, 2019
Richard Rayner, a dedicated death row investigator with over thirty years of experience, shares his remarkable journey fighting for the exoneration of wrongfully convicted inmates. He reveals the emotional toll and systemic flaws within the U.S. legal system that lead to death sentences. The conversation also touches on the decreasing public support for capital punishment and highlights the importance of advocacy in seeking justice. Additionally, cultural insights from Congo’s beer transportation journey showcase the resilience of local traders.
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Brandley Case
- Richard Rayner helped free Clarence Brandley, a janitor wrongly convicted of murder.
- The case was racially motivated, with biased witnesses and a prosecutor.
Cynical System
- Richard Rayner believes the legal system is cynical and focuses on appearing tough for reelection.
- Prosecutors and judges prioritize convictions, especially for the poor and minorities.
Common Problems
- Witness statements change between initial police interviews and court appearances.
- Prosecutors often withhold evidence that could clear the defendant.