John Marlow opposes bill impacting wrongful convictions at Washington State hearing

John Marlow, litigation director for the Washington Innocence Project, delivered a powerful testimony opposing a controversial bill during the House Civil Rights & Judiciary meeting on March 21, 2025. Marlow, who has over a decade of experience in the criminal legal system and is a survivor of domestic violence, expressed deep concerns about the bill's potential to undermine constitutional protections and increase the risk of wrongful convictions.

Marlow emphasized the importance of supporting victims without compromising justice. He highlighted troubling statistics from the National Registry of Exonerations, which has documented over 3,650 wrongful convictions since 1989, with more than 750 involving child victims. "These numbers represent thousands of years of human lives destroyed," he stated, underscoring the need for a balanced approach that addresses victim support while safeguarding the rights of the accused.

He argued that the current legal framework already provides judges with tools to assist victims during trials, such as controlling testimony pacing and limiting public access. However, he pointed out a significant gap in resources for victims outside the courtroom, advocating for community-based solutions and increased counseling services to foster healing.

Marlow concluded by calling for collaborative discussions on policies that protect victims without creating further injustices, expressing hope for a path forward that respects constitutional rights. The meeting continued with further testimonies, indicating ongoing deliberations on this critical issue.