Maslon Lawyers Secure Death Row Inmate's Right to Forensic Testing of Evidence
On Wednesday, June 10, 2009, Maslon attorneys Haley Schaffer and JoLynn Markison achieved a significant victory for client Douglas Tyrone Armstrong, who is currently serving on Death Row in Texas. Maslon's pro bono representation of Mr. Armstrong, led by David T. Schultz and Mike McCarthy, was arranged through the ABA Death Penalty Project. Julian Zebot contributed significantly by leading the research and writing of the motion and the briefing and being significantly involved in all strategy decisions relative to the motion. The case is now on direct appeal and Maslon has filed a petition for Habeas Corpus on Mr. Armstrong's behalf.
The June 10, 2009, hearing focused on whether Mr. Armstrong has a right to obtain forensic testing of various items of evidence that were not tested during the initial trial phase. The Honorable Noe Gonzalez granted Mr. Armstrong's motion in full, ordering the evidence to be analyzed for any biological material and finger and/or palm prints. The testing will be conducted by the Serological Research Institute (SERI) in conjunction with Forensic Science Associates (FSA).
The hearing garnered media coverage by two local stations in McAllen, Texas. Links to the video clips can be found at: KRGV and KGBT.
