Man Freed After 38 Years in Possibly Largest Judicial Miscarriage in UK Murder Case
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World
May 13, 2025 15:35
london - Peter Sullivan, imprisoned for 38 years for a murder in the UK, is released as new DNA evidence emerges, overturning his conviction.
Man Freed After 38 Years in Possibly Largest Judicial Miscarriage in UK Murder Case
Peter Sullivan, aged 68, emotionally reacted via video link as the Court of Appeal overturned his conviction for a 1986 murder of a 21-year-old barmaid.
Wrongful Conviction
Sullivan initially confessed but recanted after obtaining legal representation. Despite this, he was sentenced to life in prison, earning nicknames like 'the beast of Birkenhead' and 'the Mersey Ripper'.
New DNA Evidence
Authorities preserved sperm samples which, upon reexamination using advanced techniques, did not match Sullivan's DNA, leading to his likely innocence per the court.