.jpg) James Green In January 2006, 46-year-old James Green was accused of abducting and groping a child in Maury County, Tennessee.
He entered a best interest plea--also known as an Alford plea in which he did not admit guilt, but did admit there was evidence sufficient to convict him. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison.
In April 2008, the complainant recanted her claims. Following the filing of a motion to set aside his plea, the Maury County District Attorney's Office agreed to vacate the conviction and dismissed the charges. Green was then released from prison.
In January 2011, outgoing Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen pardoned Green on the basis of innocence.
In 2012, the Tennessee Board of Claims agreed to pay $142,000 in compensation. Green was given a check for $7,500 to purchase a vehicle and the state of Tennessee purchased an annunity that would pay Green $864 per month for 20 years. His attorneys received $39,000 in fees.
– Maurice Possley
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