Q: What are the chances of a new trial based on newly discovered evidence involving recantation of a star codefendant?
My nephew was convicted back in 2015 for murder. He just recently exhausted his appeal process. Approximately 4 months ago his attorney received a letter from his co-defendant (star witness due to no physical evidence) stating he lied at trial and the police coerced him into sticking to my nephew was with him during the crimes instead of the other person who was there which he mentioned and police never did anything about. He stated he wanted to relieve the burden of guilt he felt for lying and getting my nephew convicted. He stated he is ready to go to a hearing and tell this. My nephew is currently serving a life sentence. The co-defendant is serving 20 years. I guess my question ultimately is how much weight does this hold on a motion for new trial? Will it be held with a grain of salt or is this something serious? My nephew is innocent. We've been hoping the appeal would help get him home but it proved to be a complete waste of time. We want him home and he does not deserve this.
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