Pedro Hernandez, convicted in 2017 of kidnapping and killing 6-year-old Etan Patz in New York City in 1979, must be retried by June 2026 or be released, according to a federal judge. The conviction was overturned by a federal appeals court due to misdirection regarding jury records related to Hernandez’s alleged confession. Judge Colleen McMahon emphasized that if jury selection does not start by June 1, 2026, Hernandez is to be released.
Prosecutors are appealing to the Supreme Court to reconsider the decision, facing challenges due to the passage of time and the deterioration of the prosecution team. Hernandez’s attorney highlighted the injustice of the situation, asserting that Hernandez, who has mental health issues, only confessed after prolonged interrogation.
Etan Patz disappeared on May 25, 1979, near his home, leading to extensive searches. While police identified Hernandez as the suspect in 2012 and he confessed to the crime, the validity of those confessions has been questioned. His first trial ended in a hung jury, and his subsequent trial resulted in his conviction after jury inquiries about the voluntariness of his confession were inadequately addressed by the judge. The broader impact of Etan’s case has contributed to changes in missing children campaigns.
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