PUBLISHER'S NOTE: This Blog is interested in false confessions because of the disturbing number of exonerations in the USA, Canada and multiple other jurisdictions throughout the world, where, in the absence of incriminating forensic evidence the conviction is based on self-incrimination – and because of the growing body of scientific research showing how vulnerable suspects are to widely used interrogation methods such as the notorious ‘Reid Technique.’"
Harold Levy: Publisher: The Charles Smith Blog;
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PASSAGE OF THE DAY: "When this all began, Villegas was known as a teen who had more of a reputation for mischief than malice. The community was shocked by the drive-by shooting of two teenagers with no gang affiliation. Then, Villegas was pulled in by law enforcement for questioning. He was interrogated by Detective Alfonso Marquez, and hours later, Marquez emerged with a signed confession from Daniel Villegas. But that same night, Villegas recanted the confession to a social worker. But at that point it was too late. Though he had an alibi, the confession remained the centerpiece of Villegas' trial, and he was sentenced to life in prison."
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STORY: "A fatal confession: Keith Morrison investigates," published by Broadway World on June 18, 2019.
GIST: "Journalist and Dateline correspondent Keith Morrison discovered this case in 2011 and for years he followed the story of those involved, constantly tracking down new interviews and information about what truly happened to Daniel Villegas. In the new two-hour special, Morrison brings this decades-long case to life - and to its dramatic conclusion - exploring the facts behind Villegas's confession in his search for the truth. A fatal confession: Keith Morrison investigates premieres on Sunday, July 7th at 10/9ct, only on Investigation Discovery."
Morrison
said of the project, "The Daniel Villegas story proves that a caring
and determined outsider facing the longest of odds can ignite a
community, work to restore a future once lost, and inspire love along
the way." When
this all began, Villegas was known as a teen who had more of a
reputation for mischief than malice. The community was shocked by the
drive-by shooting of two teenagers with no gang affiliation. Then,
Villegas was pulled in by law enforcement for questioning. He was
interrogated by Detective Alfonso Marquez, and hours later, Marquez
emerged with a signed confession from Daniel Villegas. But that same
night, Villegas recanted the confession to a social worker. But at that
point it was too late. Though he had an alibi, the confession remained
the centerpiece of Villegas' trial, and he was sentenced to life in
prison.
Years
later, business man John Mimbela hears about Daniel's case and is
determined to find the truth about what really happened that day. Taking
on this case, Mimbela hires an experienced attorney and rallies the El
Paso community. His efforts are rewarded when Daniel is granted a new
trial in 2014. But even with all his hard work, will there be enough
evidence to prove Daniel Villegas's innocence? Or will Villegas'
conviction and life sentence
for a crime he said he didn't commit, continue to stand? Keith Morrison
sits down with the key players in this narrative, from family members
and law enforcement, to John Mimbela and Daniel Villegas himself.
Using
his years of experience as an investigative journalist, Morrison
delivers a compelling and heart wrenching story that raises probing
questions about crime, punishment and American justice."
https://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/ID-Presents-A-FATAL-CONFESSION-KEITH-MORRISON-INVESTIGATES-20190618
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PUBLISHER'S NOTE: I am monitoring this case/issue. Keep your eye on the Charles Smith Blog for reports on developments. The Toronto Star, my previous employer for more than twenty incredible years, has put considerable effort into exposing the harm caused by Dr. Charles Smith and his protectors - and into pushing for reform of Ontario's forensic pediatric pathology system. The Star has a "topic" section which focuses on recent stories related to Dr. Charles Smith. It can be found at: http://www.thestar.com/topic/charlessmith. Information on "The Charles Smith Blog Award"- and its nomination process - can be found at: http://smithforensic.blogspot.com/2011/05/charles-smith-blog-award-nominations.html Please send any comments or information on other cases and issues of interest to the readers of this blog to: hlevy15@gmail.com. Harold Levy: Publisher: The Charles Smith Blog;
