Illinois Senator Calls For More Teens To Have A Lawyer During Police Interrogations

Wrongful Conviction News Reporter Apr 16, 2016 Misconduct, Wrongful Convictions

An Illinois lawmaker want teenagers accused of murder to have a lawyer present when questioned by law enforcement.

State Sen. Patricia Van Pelt, D-Chicago, discusses her bill at a press conference. On the right is Sen. Mattie Hunter, D-Chicago.

Credit Sarah Mueller WUIS

The popular Netflix documentary “Making a Murderer” has turned the public’s attention to issues like false confessions and wrongful convictions. “Making a Murderer” was based on a Wisconsin true-crime story.

But State Sen. Patricia Van Pelt, D-Chicago, said it’s a problem for kids in her city and across Illinois.

“The one thing about Chicago,” she said. “It is the false confession capital of the whole United States.” Read More »