Alan Crotzer was in prison much too long, almost 25 years, for something DNA testing eventually proved he didn't do. The Innocence Project took his case in 2002, and his conviction got dismissed in 2006. Like many other exonerated prisoners, he got a settlement from the state. From the Tampa Bay Times:
The former St. Petersburg resident received a $1.25 million settlement from the state in 2008 and inspired legislation to make it easier for the wrongfully convicted to collect compensation. He serves on the board of the Innocence Project of Florida. He mentors boys who are at risk of getting into trouble. He advocates for restoring voting rights to released felons.
It's heartwarming to know he used his new freedom to do some good and help others. Mentoring boys, too. How nice. But not so fast. Now he's in jail without bond for a drive-by shooting. From the same Tampa Bay Times:
Tallahassee police arrested Crotzer on an attempted murder charge after they say he shot into a car he was driving alongside, wounding Antoine Davis in his arm and leg.
According to police, the men had been arguing over a CD.
Davis told police Crotzer threatened him a couple of months ago after they had an argument over a CD he sold Davis' girlfriend. Davis said he saw Crotzer's car Sunday when he was leaving a Best Buy store.
Crotzer pulled up to him and fired through an open passenger window while both cars were going about 40 mph, police said. Police found Crotzer based on a description of his car, and he was arrested Monday after Davis picked him out of a police lineup.
Dang. Some mentor.
The Innocence Project got him out once. But something tells me they won't put as much effort in it this time around. "Yo, Innocence Project. I need you to come get me out again. Hello? Hello? Anyone there?"
Via FiveFeetOfFury.com. Mug shot via WTXL.com.
Disclaimer. I'm having fun at this guys expense when he may very well be innocent this time, too. If that's the case, then let this serve as an apology in advance.
Comments