Digest

This podcast episode delves into the tragic case of five-year-old Devon Dunnever, who was found murdered in New Philadelphia, Ohio. The episode follows the investigation, which initially focused on Devon's family but ultimately led to the arrest of her 12-year-old neighbor, Anthony Harris. The episode highlights the interrogation of Anthony, during which he confessed to the crime but later recanted his confession, claiming it was coerced. The podcast details Anthony's trial, where he was found guilty of murder, and the subsequent appeal process that led to the overturning of his conviction. The episode also discusses the civil lawsuit filed against the police officers and prosecutor involved in the case, alleging violations of Anthony's constitutional rights. The podcast concludes with Anthony's reflections on his experience and his current life as a humanitarian worker, demonstrating his resilience and desire to move forward from the past.

Outlines

00:00:00

The Case of Devon Dunnever and Anthony Harris

This episode explores the tragic case of five-year-old Devon Dunnever, who was found murdered in New Philadelphia, Ohio. The episode follows the investigation, which initially focused on Devon's family but ultimately led to the arrest of her 12-year-old neighbor, Anthony Harris.

00:00:03

The Search for Devon

The episode recounts the frantic search for Devon, involving hundreds of community members, local news outlets, and even strangers. The search spanned the entire town, with people combing through every inch of the area.

00:00:39

Devon's Body Found and the Investigation Begins

The episode describes the heartbreaking discovery of Devon's body in the woods, just a block from her home. The discovery shocked the community and raised questions about how she could have been missed during the extensive search. The episode details the police investigation into Devon's murder, which initially focused on her parents and brother. The investigation eventually led to the arrest of her 12-year-old neighbor, Anthony Harris.

00:01:21

Anthony Harris's Interrogation and Confession

The episode recounts the interrogation of Anthony Harris, who was questioned without his mother present. During the interrogation, Anthony confessed to killing Devon, but later recanted his confession.

00:23:34

Anthony's Arrest, Trial, and Appeal

The episode describes Anthony's arrest and the subsequent trial, where he was found guilty of murder by Judge Kate. The trial was highly publicized and generated significant public interest. The episode details the appeal process, where Anthony's defense attorneys argued that his confession was coerced and should be thrown out. The court of appeals ultimately agreed, overturning Anthony's conviction.

00:31:49

The Civil Suit and Anthony's Life After Release

The episode discusses the civil lawsuit filed on Anthony's behalf against the police officers and prosecutor involved in his case. The lawsuit alleged that Anthony's constitutional rights were violated during the investigation and trial. The episode concludes with Anthony's reflections on his experience and his current life as a humanitarian worker. He expresses his desire to move forward from the past and serve his country.

Keywords

Q&A

• What were the key factors that led to Anthony Harris's wrongful conviction?

  Anthony's wrongful conviction was primarily due to a coerced confession obtained during a highly intense interrogation by police officers. The interrogation was conducted without his mother present, and Anthony was a young, vulnerable child who was susceptible to pressure.

• How did the court of appeals overturn Anthony's conviction?

  The court of appeals overturned Anthony's conviction based on the finding that his confession was coerced and therefore unlawful. The court determined that the interrogation violated Anthony's Miranda rights and that the confession could not be used as evidence in a retrial.

• What were the main arguments presented by Anthony's civil attorneys in the lawsuit against the police officers and prosecutor?

  Anthony's civil attorneys argued that his constitutional rights were violated during the investigation and trial. They alleged that the police officers used coercive interrogation techniques to obtain a false confession, that the prosecutor lacked probable cause to arrest Anthony, and that there was a lack of investigation into other potential suspects.

• What impact did this case have on Anthony Harris's life?

  Anthony Harris spent over two years in juvenile detention centers for a crime he did not commit. This experience had a profound impact on his life, causing him to lose his innocence and experience trauma. Despite the challenges he faced, Anthony has shown resilience and is now working as a humanitarian worker.

• What are the implications of this case for the justice system?

  The Anthony Harris case highlights the dangers of coerced confessions, particularly when dealing with vulnerable individuals like children. It also raises concerns about the adequacy of police investigations and the potential for wrongful convictions. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the rights of suspects and ensuring that justice is served fairly.

Show Notes