Derrick Hamilton was sentenced to 25 years to life for a crime he didn’t commit, spending 21 years behind bars before finally proving his innocence. While incarcerated, he became a self-taught legal expert, dedicating himself to learning the law and using his knowledge to fight not only for his own freedom but also for others who had been wrongfully convicted. His relentless pursuit of justice led to his exoneration in 2015, proving the system had failed him and so many others.

Since his release, Derrick has devoted his life to criminal justice reform. As the Co-founder of Family and Friends of the Wrongfully Convicted Inc. and Deputy Director of the Perlmutter Center for Legal Justice at Cardozo School of Law, he works tirelessly to support those who have been unjustly imprisoned. He has been instrumental in bringing attention to wrongful convictions, particularly exposing the misconduct of NYPD Detective Louis Scarcella, whose corrupt practices led to the wrongful imprisonment of numerous individuals. Thanks to Derrick’s efforts, 16 people have been exonerated to date.

Beyond advocacy, Derrick has played a crucial role in pushing for policy changes to prevent future wrongful convictions. He has helped reshape practices related to misidentification, false confessions, and discovery procedures in criminal cases. His work has not only changed lives but has also helped level the playing field for those accused of crimes, ensuring they receive a fair and just legal process.

In this episode, Derrick shares his powerful journey—from surviving decades behind bars to becoming a champion for justice. His story is one of resilience, redemption, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one else suffers the same fate. Tune in to hear how he turned his wrongful conviction into a mission to fight for truth, justice, and systemic change.

Dog In The Yard: Real Stories From Real Comrades
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