Story perspectives

Texas Woman Exonerated After 22 Years; Faces Deportation

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Carmen Mejia, a Texas woman, was declared innocent on March 10, 2026, after serving over 22 years for a wrongful conviction in a child's death.
Mejia, 54, was convicted in 2005 for murder and injury to a child but consistently maintained her innocence.
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned her conviction in January 2026, citing new evidence.
Despite her exoneration, Mejia faced deportation due to a lapsed immigration status while incarcerated.
The Homeland Security Department confirmed she can legally remain in the U.S. until her Temporary Protected status expires.

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Story summary

Carmen Mejia, a Texas woman, was declared innocent on March 10, 2026, after serving over 22 years for a wrongful conviction in a child's death.
Mejia, 54, was convicted in 2005 for murder and injury to a child but consistently maintained her innocence.
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned her conviction in January 2026, citing new evidence.
Despite her exoneration, Mejia faced deportation due to a lapsed immigration status while incarcerated.
The Homeland Security Department confirmed she can legally remain in the U.S. until her Temporary Protected status expires.