Wrongfully Convicted for Mother's Murder at 14 Years Old

When he was 14 years old, Michael Politte was wrongfully convicted of his mother’s murder. He has spent over 20 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. After 23 years in prison, Michael's going to court to demand justice for his family.

Founded in 1985, the Roderick & Solange MacArthur Justice Center is one of the premier civil rights law firms in the United States. In addition to Chicago, the MacArthur Justice Center has offices in New Orleans, LA; St. Louis, MO, Oxford, MS; and Washington, DC.

Keep up with the MacArthur Justice Center

[tainahollo]

How can they destroy a child's life like that?! The life of a child that has just lost his mother...

[mikeengland]

What the hell drives a legal system so steeped in cronyism, whim and outright corruption?
I hope you get justice and its soon.

[steviek]

Bernie I worked with Rita at FMA back in the 80s and early 90s. with all my heart I know you're innocent. She always had funny stories she shared about you. your 2 sisters were older and you were her baby. I know Ed abused her but she wouldn't leave. your mom loved you and your sisters so much. I miss her infectious laugh. take care and I know she is proud of you.

[scottaznavourian]

He's been released on parole but is still fighting to clear his name.
A new prosecutor moved to vacate his conviction.

[onlyhumanafterall]

& where is he today? Hope he's digging his toes in the sand & watching every sunset & sunrise, with loving arms wrapped around him. Blessings Mike.

[calkim]

UNFORTUNATELY justice is always more concerned about their public opinion an those children it so often fails. You had no voice as a child an their not so disinterested state funded poor quality legal representation. WHOM CONTESTED NOTHING!! It's an industry standard argument from authority an your guaranteed KAFKA TRAP denying GUILT ending. I hope you get JUSTICE and access to real legal representation this time providing your available best evidence. WHOM fight for your BEST INTERESTS not THEIRS!!

[rhobbs]

How’s he got a wife and kids if he went away for the murder when he was 14?