India Spellman Exonerated

Isabella Balian Staff Writer

History was made last week when India Spellman became the first woman, and first Black woman, to be exonerated from prison in Philadelphia history. On February 9th of last week, Spellman’s wrongful conviction was overturned, bringing a moment of pure relief and justice to Spellman, her family and the greater Philadelphia community.

At only 17 years old,

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Spellman was wrongfully convicted of second-degree murder, tried as an adult, convicted and police, her alibis were forgotten and she was unfairly tried.

“India is an innocent

Continued on p. 3 of crimes that she did not commit,” PJP Director and Villanova professor Dr. Jill McCorkel said. “After 13 years of fighting and maintaining her innocence and never giving up hope, [Spellman] was finally, finally able to take back a measure of justice for herself and her family. And she was able to do so as the world watched.”

After years of protest, petitioning and fighting for justice, Spellman was finally released by Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner.

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Public Safety Blotter

Harassment/Terrorist Threats/Theft by Deception

February 6-12, STANFORD HALL

A resident student reported they were the victim of an internet scam after being threatened to complete a transfer of money. The total value of the loss is $1,550.

Aggravated Assault/Terroristic Threats

February 14-15, COMMONS SEPTA Radnor Twp received a report of an armed subject on the R100 Septa line at the Aldwyn Station who threatened a train conductor.

Harassment

February 14-15, MULLEN CENTER

An employee reported being physically struck by another employee.

Corrections

Theft by Deception

February 12-15, CONNELLY CENTER

A female resident student reported being the victim of an internet scam. The total amount of the loss is $450.00.

Disorderly Conduct/Criminal Mischief/Liquor Underage

February 16, TRINITY HALL

A male resident student, under the age of 21, was evaluated for alcohol intoxication after he was observed damaging university property inside of his residence hall room.

Carrying a False ID/Liquor Underage/Public Drunkenness/ Public

Urination

February 16, L-4 LANCASTER RES. HALL LOT

One male resident student under the age of 21 was evaluated for alcohol intoxication after being observed urinating in public. The student was also in possession of a counterfeit identification card.

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