Syed has always maintained his innocence. We’ve just been on pins and needles this whole time.” Sara Patel, a friend of Syed’s, said “we’re very happy and relieved that he’s finally free. But after the hearing, his lawyer Erica Suter described his reaction to the decision, saying: “He said he couldn’t believe it’s real.” Syed did not speak during the hearing, nor did he address the reporters outside afterward. Minutes later, Syed emerged from the courthouse and flashed a smile as he was shepherded to a waiting SUV through a sea of cameras and a cheering crowd of supporters. Syed, you’re free to join your family,” Phinn said as the hearing ended. The judge also said the state must decide whether to seek a new trial date or dismiss the case within 30 days. She ordered Syed to be placed on home detention with GPS location monitoring. Phinn ruled that the state violated its legal obligation to share evidence that could have bolstered Syed’s defense. There were gasps and applause in the crowded courtroom as the judge announced her decision. (AP Photo/Brian Witte)Īt the behest of prosecutors who had uncovered new evidence, Circuit Court Judge Melissa Phinn ordered that Syed’s conviction be vacated as she approved the release of the now-41-year-old who has spent more than two decades behind bars.
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