<p>Luis Vargas was wrongfully convicted after three separate witnesses misidentified him as the “Teardrop Rapist.” Sixteen years later, DNA linked to the uncaught serial sex offender was found in one of the victim’s clothing from the crime. But for that evidence being preserved, Luis Vargas would have spent the rest of his life behind bars. This is his story.</p>

Luis Vargas was wrongfully convicted after three separate witnesses misidentified him as the “Teardrop Rapist.” Sixteen years later, DNA linked to the uncaught serial sex offender was found in one of the victim’s clothing from the crime. But for that evidence being preserved, Luis Vargas would have spent the rest of his life behind bars. This is his story.

The Luis Vargas Story: Misidentified as the “Teardrop Rapist”

Hosted by The Innocence Center’s Executive Director Michael Semanchik, For the Innocent features heartbreaking first-person accounts of exonerees like NFL football player Brian Banks and loving father Zavion Johnson about their experiences of being wrongfully convicted. Hear emotional stories of unfair trials revolving around crimes not committed, devastating memories of incarceration and the journey these men and women took to receive freedom through exoneration. 

Throughout the series, you’ll hear from legal and criminal experts, forensic scientists, and prominent judges who will help us understand what went wrong. Expert guests provide insights about our criminal justice system and how wrongful convictions become a terrible reality.

Learn why innocent people falsely confess, what causes misidentifications, and how junk science like bite marks, shaken baby syndrome and DNA can be used to convict people. 

With its compelling storytelling and dedication to uncovering the truth, For The Innocent serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fighting for innocence, while also highlighting the tireless efforts of activists and lawyers working to right these injustices and holding institutions accountable for their mistakes.

Season One and Two are now available.

Society & Culture

Documentary

True Crime

Hosted by The Innocence Center’s Executive Director Michael Semanchik, For the Innocent features heartbreaking first-person accounts of exonerees like NFL football player Brian Banks and loving father Zavion Johnson about their experiences of being wrongfully convicted. Hear emotional stories of unfair trials revolving around crimes not committed, devastating memories of incarceration and the journey these men and women took to receive freedom through exoneration. Throughout the series, you’ll hear from legal and criminal experts, forensic scientists, and prominent judges who will help us understand what went wrong. Expert guests provide insights about our criminal justice system and how wrongful convictions become a terrible reality. Learn why innocent people falsely confess, what causes misidentifications, and how junk science like bite marks, shaken baby syndrome and DNA can be used to convict people. With its compelling storytelling and dedication to uncovering the truth, For The Innocent serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fighting for innocence, while also highlighting the tireless efforts of activists and lawyers working to right these injustices and holding institutions accountable for their mistakes. Season One and Two are now available.

Hosted by The Innocence Center’s Executive Director Michael Semanchik, For the Innocent features heartbreaking first-person accounts of exonerees like NFL football player Brian Banks and loving father Zavion Johnson about their experiences of being wrongfully convicted. Hear emotional stories of unfair trials revolving around crimes not committed, devastating memories of incarceration and the journey these men and women took to receive freedom through exoneration.&nbsp;

Throughout the series, you’ll hear from legal and criminal experts, forensic scientists, and prominent judges who will help us understand what went wrong. Expert guests provide insights about our criminal justice system and how wrongful convictions become a terrible reality.

Learn why innocent people falsely confess, what causes misidentifications, and how junk science like bite marks, shaken baby syndrome and DNA can be used to convict people.&nbsp;

With its compelling storytelling and dedication to uncovering the truth, For The Innocent serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fighting for innocence, while also highlighting the tireless efforts of activists and lawyers working to right these injustices and holding institutions accountable for their mistakes.

Season One and Two are now available.

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The Luis Vargas Story: Misidentified as the “Teardrop Rapist”

The Luis Vargas Story: Misidentified as the “Teardrop Rapist”

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