Deep Dive
Why was Joshua Kezer convicted for the murder of Mischelle Lawless?
Kezer was convicted based on jailhouse informants who claimed he confessed, and Mark Abbott's identification of him as the driver near the crime scene. Additionally, Chantel Kreider's testimony linked him to a prior argument with Lawless.
What evidence was used to convict Joshua Kezer?
Evidence included jailhouse informants' testimonies, Mark Abbott's identification, and Chantel Kreider's testimony about a prior argument. There was also supposed blood evidence on Kezer's jacket and car keys, though later tests showed it was not blood.
Why did Sheriff Rick Walter reopen the case of Mischelle Lawless's murder?
Walter had nagging doubts about Kezer's conviction and believed the community also doubted his guilt. He reopened the case to seek the truth and potentially correct a wrongful conviction.
What were the key findings that led to Joshua Kezer's exoneration?
Key findings included jailhouse informants admitting they lied, the supposed blood evidence on Kezer's jacket being proven non-existent, and Chantel Kreider admitting she was pressured to testify falsely.
Who are the main suspects in Mischelle Lawless's murder after Joshua Kezer's exoneration?
Main suspects include Mark Abbott, one of the Abbott twins, and Leon Lamb, Lawless's boyfriend at the time. Abbott's account of finding Lawless has inconsistencies, and Lamb's DNA was found under her fingernails.
What role did Jane Williams play in Joshua Kezer's exoneration?
Jane Williams, a church volunteer, read Kezer's trial transcripts and felt compelled to act. She wrote a detailed summary and found lawyers willing to take his case for free, leading to a review by Judge Richard Callahan.
What was the outcome of the DNA testing conducted at the Crime Farm in the Netherlands?
The DNA testing raised doubts about Mark Abbott's account of how he pulled Lawless upright in her seat. It also confirmed Leon Lamb's DNA was mixed with Lawless's blood under her fingernails, though no other DNA was found.
How has Joshua Kezer's life changed since his exoneration?
Kezer got a job, his own apartment, and became an advocate for judicial reform. He remains close with Jane Williams and enjoys strong support from his church community. He also donated $10,000 to the Scott County Sheriff's Department to fund the continuing investigation.
- Michelle Lawless was found murdered in her car.
- She suffered severe beatings and was shot three times.
- The crime scene showed signs of a struggle.
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