Man exonerated after 25 years seeks millions from Detroit

  • Print
Listen to this story

Subscriber Benefit

As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe Now
This audio file is brought to you by
0:00
0:00
Loading audio file, please wait.
  • 0.25
  • 0.50
  • 0.75
  • 1.00
  • 1.25
  • 1.50
  • 1.75
  • 2.00

A Detroit man who served 25 years in prison for murder based on sham evidence has filed a lawsuit seeking more than $100 million.

Desmond Ricks was released in May after making the extraordinary claim that Detroit police framed him for a fatal shooting outside a restaurant in 1992. An analysis of two bullets shows they didn’t match a gun that was presented as the murder weapon.

Attorney Wolfgang Mueller says Ricks was a victim of “horrific” misconduct. He filed a lawsuit in federal court Wednesday on behalf of Ricks and two daughters. A message seeking comment was left with the Detroit law department Thursday.

At trial, prosecutors said a gun belonging to Ricks’ mother was used in the slaying. But tests on bullets still in police storage eliminated any connection.

Please enable JavaScript to view this content.

Get full access to The Indiana Lawyer! Subscribe Now

Get full access to The Indiana Lawyer! Subscribe Now

Get full access to The Indiana Lawyer! Upgrade Now

Get full access to The Indiana Lawyer! Upgrade Now

Get full access to The Indiana Lawyer!

Subscribe Now

Already a paid subscriber? Log In

Your go-to for Indy business news.

Try us out for

$1/week

Cancel anytime

Subscribe Now

Already a paid subscriber? Log In

Your go-to for Indy business news.

Try us out for

$1/week

Cancel anytime

Subscribe Now

Already a paid subscriber? Log In

Your go-to for Indy business news.

Try us out for

$1/week

Cancel anytime

Subscribe Now

Already a paid subscriber? Log In