Sometimes when detectives can't get a confession they'll settle for a something else

Laura Nirider and Steve Drizin explore the story of Emerson Stevens, a fisherman from Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay. When a young mother was found murdered, it seemed all the evidence pointed to Emerson, until the case fell apart. Emerson survived 31 years in prison with the help of an ally from across the bay.

Wrongful Conviction: False Confessions  is a production of Lava for Good™ Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1.

​​We have worked hard to ensure that all facts reported in this show are accurate. The views and opinions expressed by the individuals featured in this show are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Lava for Good.

To support Emerson Stevens’ request for an Absolute Pardon contact the Governor of Virginia's office and the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office. The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office investigates the requests while the Governor grants or denies the requests.

Governor Ralph E. Northam

Use the email form at: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/constituent-services/communicating-with-the-governors-office/

Write a letter to:

Governor Ralph E. Northam

P.O. Box 1475

Richmond, VA 23218

Call:

804-786-2211

Secretary of the Commonwealth Kelly Thomasson

Email to: pardons@governor.virginia.gov

Write a letter to:

Secretary of the Commonwealth

Kelly Thomasson

P.O. Bo 2454

Richmond, Virginia 23218

Call:

804-692-2542

A portion of this podcast series’ proceeds will be donated to the Center on Wrongful Convictions. To donate, learn more, or get involved, go to http://www.centeronwrongfulconvictions.org/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.