Criminologists to study effect of wrongful convictions

A new project will see criminologists study the effect of wrongful convictions on the lives of victims after their release, The Herald reports.

The study, based in Glasgow and undertaken by experts from Oxford University, will see victims of miscarriages of justice interviewed to establish what more needs to be done to support them.

Lead researcher Laura Tilt said: “This will be one of the first studies of its kind in the United Kingdom. Research on wrongful convictions to date has focused on how they occur and are overturned – there is so far very little empirical research on the post-exoneration experience outside the United States.”

“In the UK, legislation has now significantly restricted the possibility of obtaining compensation. In this very dismal climate, the lived experiences of the wrongfully convicted can inform what post-release support is available - or should be available - to repair the harms caused by wrongful conviction. Simply quashing a conviction is not enough.”

Co-project manager, Paul Mclaughlin, said: “We feel this study is vitally important to everyone fighting for justice for the innocent. The study will allow us to produce the evidence required to show the true impact of wrongful conviction, and will be a tool, which will aid all those fighting for the rights of the innocent and wrongfully convicted.”

James Boyle, 60, was cleared of historical sex offences against children in 2012 after serving five years in prison. Since his release he has found it difficult to return to his old life and has been unable to return to work as a teacher. He will be one of the interviewees.

Mr Boyle said: “I think in terms of when someone is released from prison, the legal representation must be made available on the same basis as it was made available to the complainers so that people in my position are able to defend themselves and challenge institutions.

“That is fundamental because, unless you’re an extremely wealthy person, without that access you are immediately hobbled. So, I think we need legal services to be provided to us for as long as we need them.”

He added: “We need redress, restorative justice, public enquiries and whatever assistance it takes to deal with the impacts in terms of the psychological and health damage.

“I had to deal with allegations that I was a paedophile when I’m not. That is clearly a damaging thing to have to deal with.

“The other side of the coin is it always has a very bad physical impact. For example, doctors have told me the fact I have chronic stomach and bowel problems is down to the stress and strain.”

Mr Mclaughlin added: “We are trying to identify anyone who has been exonerated, their friends and family, and professionals who have who have worked with exonorees, who may want to contribute.

“Laura Tilt will be at our office in Glasgow from Monday July 11 until Friday July 22, doing interviews for the project.

“We would like to encourage anyone who may meet the criteria of the study to arrange an appointment.

“If they wish to contribute. Interviews will be held at the MOJO office in Glasgow but arrangements can be made to visit anyone who would like to contribute to the research.”