Long exonerated for crime he didnt commit, Minnesota man finally gets a pardon

Sherman Townsend, who spent 10 years wrongfully imprisoned, was pardoned for a burglary he did not commit, a decision made by the Minnesota Board of Pardons. This unanimous agreement followed changes in state legislation that streamlined the pardon process, allowing for more efficient reviews of clemency applications. Townsend was convicted in 1998 based on erroneous eyewitness identification and turned down a plea deal to maintain his innocence. The Innocence Project, now known as the Great North Innocence Project, was pivotal in his exoneration, aided by a confession from the true perpetrator. Legislative reforms have resulted in an increase in clemency hearings, with 80 conducted last year, compared to 64 in 2023, reflecting a growing recognition of wrongful convictions.

The Clemency Review Commission has also improved the state’s ability to process such applications. Townsend's story emphasizes the importance of ongoing reform in the justice system to rectify past mistakes. His experience serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in ensuring justice and accountability.