Jimmy Soto, Illinois’ longest-serving exonerated man, is suing the Chicago Police Department and several Cook County prosecutors after spending over 42 years in prison for a double murder he insists he did not commit.
At 63, Soto is pursuing over $200 million in damages following the overturning of his 1981 conviction.
A judge ruled that Soto and his cousin, David Ayala, lacked adequate legal counsel during their trial, where there was no physical evidence tying them to the crime.
Soto’s conviction was overturned in December, making him the individual with the longest wrongful incarceration in Illinois history.
In his lawsuit, he highlights the profound impact of his wrongful imprisonment, asserting that even the damages he seeks may not adequately compensate for the significant years lost.
Blue & Gold NLR Team is a dedicated journalist at blueandgoldnlr.com, where he provides insightful and up-to-date news coverage. With a passion for uncovering the truth and a commitment to delivering accurate information, Blue & Gold NLR Team brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. His work ensures readers stay informed about the latest events and developments.