The Conviction Review Unit concluded that Brian Pippitt was “wrongfully convicted of the murder of Evelyn Malin.”
“First, I’d like to share my immense gratitude to Centurion Ministries, the Great North Innocence Project, and the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office Conviction Review Unit (CRU) for re-investigating my case. I’m particularly grateful to my attorney and friend Jim Cousins for his many years of efforts to win my freedom. I find their reports to be comprehensive and well-informed investigations, and clearly demonstrate my innocence. I also wish to express my sincere compassion for and condolences to Ms. Malin’s family, as I am sure that the resurfacing of this case brings them pain and grief.
“After reviewing the CRU’s report, I felt frustrated to learn that much of the evidence that demonstrated my innocence was ignored during the original investigation, and that unreliable jailhouse informant testimony was a driving contributor of my conviction. I wish that the original investigation had been as comprehensive and objective as that of Centurion, the Great North Innocence Project, and CRU these many years later.
“Our legal system is predicated on finality, and I know better than most how difficult it is to reverse a conviction once someone has been found guilty, even when that person is truly innocent. I also know that Native American people are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system, adding yet another layer of injustice to my ongoing wrongful incarceration.
“I have waited more than 25 years for freedom. I never agreed to a plea deal because I have always known I am innocent. Admitting guilt to something I played no role in would only perpetuate the original injustice. Throughout my wrongful incarceration, my family has endured immense tragedy and I have lost many loved ones including sisters, brothers, uncles, and nieces. My adopted mother and my biological father are both in failing health, and I am acutely aware that I risk losing them before I ever see freedom as this process continues.
“Ultimately, I look forward to the Court’s further consideration of my case and the CRU’s findings of my innocence. I yearn for the day I will be able to walk free, visit with my ailing mother and father, and reunite with my remaining family and community.”
Responses