In this episode of Stuck, host Andrew Wildes discusses the complexities of wrongful convictions with Professor Kent Roach, exploring real cases, the role of DNA evidence, the impact of eyewitness testimony, and the systemic issues within the justice system. They delve into the psychological aspects of denial surrounding wrongful convictions and the importance of legal education and reforms to prevent such injustices. The discussion also touches on the implications of the death penalty and the need for better forensic science to ensure accuracy in convictions.

Key Themes

Richard Catchway's case exemplifies a false guilty plea.

Wrongful convictions are often underestimated in their prevalence.

DNA evidence has limitations and is not available in all cases.

Eyewitness testimony is a significant factor in wrongful convictions.

Legal education can raise awareness about wrongful convictions.

The death penalty's ethical concerns regarding wrongful convictions.

Systemic reforms are necessary to improve the justice system.

Forensic science plays a crucial role in preventing wrongful convictions.

Psychological denial about wrongful convictions is common.

Collaboration among legal professionals is essential to address wrongful convictions.

Chapters

00:00 – The Case of Richard Catchway: A Wrongful Conviction

03:00 – Wrongful Convictions: Insights from Professor Kent Roach

05:50 – The Role of DNA Evidence in Wrongful Convictions

08:50 – The Impact of Eyewitness Testimony and Identification Issues

12:08 – The Importance of Legal Education and Awareness

15:09 – The Death Penalty and Wrongful Convictions

18:07 – The Need for Systemic Reforms in Justice

21:10 – The Role of Forensic Science in Preventing Wrongful Convictions

24:08 – The Psychological Aspects of Wrongful Convictions

27:04 – Building a Better Justice System: Lessons from Canada and Beyond

Resources

📘 Get Kent’s Book: Wrongfully Convicted (Updated and Expanded Edition): Guilty Pleas, Imagined Crimes, and What Canada Must Do to Safeguard Justice  

Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored; however, it contains an affiliate link. If you click and make a purchase through this link, I may receive a commission.

🎧 Listen to the Interview: Professor Kent Roach on the Charter A Course Podcast – S4E1: Constitutional Remedies

Connect with Kent Roach

🔗 Faculty Page – University of Toronto Faculty of Law

🔗 LinkedIn Profile

Brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠The Wave⁠⁠⁠ on ⁠⁠⁠The Frequency Network⁠⁠⁠.

More About Andrew Wildes

Explore the work of ⁠⁠⁠Andrew Wildes⁠⁠⁠—Jamaican lawyer, journalist, and host of Stuck: Wrongful Convictions in Jamaica. His mission is to expose systemic injustice, amplify the voices of the wrongfully imprisoned, and drive meaningful legal reform through storytelling and advocacy.

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For updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes content, follow Andrew across platforms and join the conversation on justice in Jamaica.

Production, Distribution, and Marketing

Produced by ⁠⁠⁠Massif Studio & Production⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠The Tallawah Group⁠⁠⁠.

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