Key Insights
Why was Edward Wright initially suspected of Penny Anderson's murder?
Edward Wright was initially suspected due to witness statements placing him with Penny Anderson on the night of her murder, and a phone call to Arthur Turner where the caller admitted to the crime and provided details matching the murder scene.
What evidence was found at Penny Anderson's crime scene?
Evidence included a bloody shoe print, blood samples, and a blood-soaked length of pink ribbon used to bind Penny's hands. There was also seminal fluid and sperm cells found in Penny's body, indicating a sexual assault.
Why did Arthur Turner initially identify Edward Wright as the caller but later waver in his testimony?
Arthur Turner initially identified Edward Wright as the caller based on the details provided during the phone call. However, he later wavered in his testimony, possibly due to reconciliation between Wright and Turner's mother, which could have influenced his memory and confidence in the identification.
What new evidence has recently emerged in Edward Wright's case?
New DNA evidence found on Penny Anderson's clothing and a bloody washcloth does not match Edward Wright's DNA profile, indicating the presence of an unknown male. Additionally, police reports revealing other suspects with motives were allegedly withheld from the defense for decades.
What challenges has Edward Wright faced in his attempts to prove his innocence?
Wright has faced numerous challenges, including inconsistent witness testimonies, lack of conclusive physical evidence linking him to the crime, and alleged police and prosecutorial misconduct. He has also struggled with ineffective counsel and the unavailability of DNA testing at his trial.
What role did Alan Smalls play in the investigation and trial of Edward Wright?
Alan Smalls was a former boyfriend of Penny Anderson and was seen arguing with her on the night of her murder. His mother later provided statements suggesting Alan's involvement, including his attempt to sell a hunting knife and his strange behavior after the murder. However, these statements were largely hearsay and not fully corroborated.
Why did the judge deny Edward Wright's motion for a new trial in 1986?
The judge denied the motion for a new trial, stating that the testimony of Alan Smalls' mother, Lee Britt, was without credibility and not worthy of careful consideration. Much of her testimony was based on hearsay from Alan's girlfriend, Maria Rivera, who was not available to testify at the time.
How has the New England Innocence Project supported Edward Wright's case?
The New England Innocence Project has taken up Wright's case, providing legal support and filing multiple appeals. They have highlighted issues such as police and prosecutorial misconduct, flawed forensic evidence, and the introduction of new DNA evidence that does not match Wright's profile.
Chapters
- Penny Anderson was found murdered in her Springfield apartment in 1984.
- She was stabbed 60 times and had seminal fluid and sperm cells found in her body.
- No signs of forced entry or ransacking were found in her apartment.
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