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NYC Prosecutors Seek Supreme Court Review of Patz Murder Case

9/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New York City prosecutors will ask the U.S. Supreme Court to reinstate Pedro Hernandez's murder conviction for the 1979 disappearance of 6-year-old Etan Patz.
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the conviction in July, requiring a retrial within a reasonable timeframe.
Prosecutors claim the ruling raises "substantial legal questions" and aim to delay enforcement until the Supreme Court's October 20 filing deadline.
Hernandez, now 64, asserts he falsely confessed due to mental illness and flawed police procedures.
His case prompted significant changes in child safety protocols and the creation of National Missing Children's Day.

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Story summary

New York City prosecutors will ask the U.S. Supreme Court to reinstate Pedro Hernandez's murder conviction for the 1979 disappearance of 6-year-old Etan Patz.
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the conviction in July, requiring a retrial within a reasonable timeframe.
Prosecutors claim the ruling raises "substantial legal questions" and aim to delay enforcement until the Supreme Court's October 20 filing deadline.
Hernandez, now 64, asserts he falsely confessed due to mental illness and flawed police procedures.
His case prompted significant changes in child safety protocols and the creation of National Missing Children's Day.