South Carolina Man Who Maintained Innocence Freed After 15 Years, Judge Overturns Assault and Robbery Conviction

A South Carolina man who has served 15 years behind bars for a 2010 assault and robbery he insists he did not commit has been released.

A judge ruled Thursday at a hearing in Clarendon County to vacate Michael Pearson’s conviction and 60-year prison sentence. He was also released on a $50,000 personal recognizance bond. Pearson is also prohibited from communicating with the victim’s family.

“It’s unbelievable. That this day has come finally. I was looking for this day for the longest, but it’s shocking right now,” Pearson said as he left the Clarendon County courthouse.

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