Innocence Project Release of Stephanie

As many of you know my childhood friend Stephanie was accused and wrongly convicted of a very sad crime. She was a married mother of 2 and a home daycare provider for many years. She had a new 1 year old child in her care ( very 1st day) and after the child was picked up at the end of the day, the child became ill. Sadly her condition worsened and she passed away.  Stephanie was accused of hurting this child causing her death. She was put on trial and due to the incompetence of her legal counsel she was convicted of a lesser charge and sentenced to 15 years in prison.  There were no outward signs of trauma to the child. No bruises, no neck injuries, no broke bones but the child had a brain injury. Sadly upon review of the medical records it was concluded that the child had an undiagnosed medical condition causing a bleed in the brain. This information was available from the beginning yet her counsel didn’t present any of this. Stephanie maintained her innocence and her case was picked up by 2 Innocence Projects. The Attorneys presented the findings about 18 months ago and a few weeks ago 3 judges overturned Stephanie’s conviction, granted her a new trial and Friday 7/31/20 the judge set a bond for her release. Her family has paid her bond and she will be released from prison this Monday 8/3/20.   

My sweet, strong friend has been in prison for 8 long years and has nothing. I’m talking about-no personal items, no toothbrush, undergarments, clothing, toiletries. I could go on but I know you understand what I’m saying.  She will be living with her mom who is retired and on a fixed income.  Anything will help my innocent friend adjust to her new life. The Innocence Project will be preparing for her new trial, but no trial date has been set. I will do updates when things come about. If you have any questions, please message me.  Thanks so much, Mary