The Innocence Project of Texas

Last week, Charles Chatman spoke to law students at Texas Wesleyan University School of Law about his wrongful conviction and his struggle to adapt to life in the free world. Chatman, who has represented by IPOT Board President Michelle Moore on his innocence claim, was exonerated in early January of 2008. He is now helping out the Innocence Project of Texas by spreading the word about his experience being convicted and incarcerated for a crime he did not commit.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports…

Released from prison in January after serving about 27 years for a crime he didn’t commit, Chatman is learning to use a debit card and a cellphone. When he celebrated his release with a judge, Chatman had to be taught how to use a knife to cut his food: Knives aren’t allowed in prison.

“I try to base my life on the faith I had to get out. I don’t dwell on the past,” Chatman said Wednesday at the Texas Wesleyan University School of Law, where he spoke to students involved with the Innocence Project. “I try to live my life from this day on.”

Chatman is the 15th inmate from Dallas County to be freed through DNA testing. He was convicted of raping a woman in 1981 and was sentenced to life in prison.

The Innocence Project of Texas, which includes students from Texas Wesleyan and other schools, helped secure Chatman’s release. The luncheon at which Chatman spoke is an annual event.

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