Ep 18. Justice Denied: The Hurricane Carter Story

In the Season 1999 finale of American Justice, the episode titled "Justice Denied: The Hurricane Carter Story" tells the true story of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a former professional boxer who was wrongfully convicted of a triple homicide in Paterson, New Jersey in 1966. Carter and John Artis, a friend of his, were sentenced to life in prison for the murders of three people at the Lafayette Bar and Grill.

The episode begins by examining the racial tensions in America during the 1960s and how they played a role in Carter's case. Carter was a prominent black athlete, and his conviction was seen by many as a racially motivated attempt to silence him.

The episode takes a deep dive into the evidence against Carter and Artis, which was largely based on the testimony of two known criminals who claimed to have seen them leaving the scene of the crime. However, their testimony was later discredited due to inconsistencies and their own criminal backgrounds. Furthermore, the prosecution suppressed evidence that could have exonerated Carter and Artis, including witness statements that placed them elsewhere at the time of the murders.

The episode highlights the numerous appeals and legal battles fought by Carter and his supporters over the years. In 1976, a federal judge overturned Carter's conviction, citing prosecutorial misconduct and ineffective assistance of counsel. However, the state of New Jersey continued to fight for Carter's guilt and he was retried and convicted again in 1978.

In 1985, the case was reopened after new evidence was discovered that suggested the prosecution had fabricated and suppressed evidence, tampered with witnesses, and used racial prejudice to secure the convictions. Carter and Artis were released from prison and their convictions were vacated, putting an end to Carter's 19 years of incarceration.

The episode explores the aftermath of Carter's release, including his move to Toronto and work as an advocate for the wrongly convicted. It also highlights the story's impact on popular culture, particularly the Bob Dylan song "Hurricane" and the 1999 film "The Hurricane," in which actor Denzel Washington portrayed Carter.

Throughout the episode, various experts weigh in on the case, including Carter himself, his legal team, and journalists who covered the story. The episode provides a compelling look at a high-profile case that raised important questions about race, justice, and the flaws in the American legal system.