An Oklahoma County Judge has ruled that Glynn Simmons will not face a new murder trial, bringing an end to his nearly fifty-year fight for justice. Simmons was convicted 48 years ago for the shooting death of a liquor store clerk during a robbery in Edmond, as well as the shooting of a second woman who survived. His conviction was vacated in July, and he had been awaiting a decision for a new trial while out on bond.
The decision to dismiss Simmons’ case and murder conviction came after a recognition that his 1975 trial was conducted unfairly. Judge Amy Palumbo’s ruling was influenced, in part, by a missing police report containing crucial information about suspect lineups, which raised doubts about the identification made by the primary witness in the case.
Glynn Simmons, speaking at a press conference organized by his attorneys, expressed his relief at being a free man after serving 48 years, five months, and 13 days in prison. His exoneration also makes him the longest-serving exonerated individual recorded by the National Registry of Exonerations.
Simmons’ attorneys hope that his case will shed light on necessary changes within the court system. They aim to address racial disparities that persist in Oklahoma’s incarceration rates, where Black individuals make up over 25% of the state’s prison population despite comprising only 8% of the total U.S. population.
Simmons plans to remain involved in criminal justice reform efforts. Currently undergoing cancer treatment, he is raising funds to rebuild his life, including support for housing, transportation, and medical care. A GoFundMe account has been set up for those interested in donating.
