After enduring 37 years of wrongful imprisonment for a rape and murder he did not commit, Robert DuBoise has been awarded a $14 million settlement by the Tampa City Council. DuBoise’s conviction for the 1983 crime was overturned in September 2020 following DNA evidence proving his innocence.
He became the 30th person exonerated from Florida’s death row, aided by the Innocence Project of Florida.
DuBoise expressed sorrow for families awaiting closure and criticized the flawed investigative process that led to his wrongful conviction. DNA samples ultimately linked the crime to two other convicts already serving life sentences for a separate murder in Pinellas County.
Acknowledging the failings of the justice system, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the importance of precision and adherence to high standards in criminal investigations. Chief of Police Lee Bercaw highlighted advancements in training and technology to prevent similar injustices.
During DuBoise’s trial, there was no physical or circumstantial evidence tying him to the crime. False testimony from a jailhouse informant further complicated his case.
The settlement, to be paid over three years, includes an initial $9 million payment, followed by installments of $3 million and $2 million in subsequent years. DuBoise will file to dismiss the wrongful conviction lawsuit within 10 days of the initial payment.
Council member Charlie Miranda underscored the profound loss suffered by DuBoise during his wrongful imprisonment, asking members to consider 14,600 days of wrongful confinement.
The resolution signifies a step towards rectifying a grave injustice, providing both financial compensation and acknowledgment of DuBoise’s wrongful conviction.
