Story perspectives

Life Sentence Commuted for Wrongfully Convicted Murderer

1/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Brian Pippitt, sentenced to life for the 1998 murder of Evelyn Malin, will be released after the Board of Pardons commuted his sentence.
The Minnesota Attorney General’s Conviction Review Unit found significant flaws in the prosecution, including unreliable witness testimony and a lack of physical evidence.
Two key witnesses have recanted their statements.
Although he is released on parole, his conviction remains intact while he pursues exoneration.

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Story summary

Brian Pippitt, sentenced to life for the 1998 murder of Evelyn Malin, will be released after the Board of Pardons commuted his sentence.
The Minnesota Attorney General’s Conviction Review Unit found significant flaws in the prosecution, including unreliable witness testimony and a lack of physical evidence.
Two key witnesses have recanted their statements.
Although he is released on parole, his conviction remains intact while he pursues exoneration.