Story perspectives

Stephen Martinez Exonerated After 27 Years in Baby's Death

4/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Stephen Martinez had his conviction vacated on April 21, 2026, after 27 years for the 1998 death of 4-month-old Heather Mares.
Prosecutors dismissed the case after new evidence showed Heather Mares died from severe lung disease instead of being shaken.
Family members expressed disbelief, insisting Martinez is guilty despite his recantation of a confession.
The Korey Wise Innocence Project helped uncover findings and challenge shaken baby syndrome as a diagnosis.

History

Historical Context

In 2001, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued guidelines on shaken baby syndrome, leading to over 1,000 prosecutions of caregivers, often resulting in severe sentences. The 1999 trial of Sally Clark, wrongfully convicted based on flawed expert testimony, sparked scrutiny of such diagnoses. The recent vacating of Stephen Martinez's conviction reflects ongoing debates about the validity of these diagnoses and may influence future legal reforms.

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Story summary

Stephen Martinez had his conviction vacated on April 21, 2026, after 27 years for the 1998 death of 4-month-old Heather Mares.
Prosecutors dismissed the case after new evidence showed Heather Mares died from severe lung disease instead of being shaken.
Family members expressed disbelief, insisting Martinez is guilty despite his recantation of a confession.
The Korey Wise Innocence Project helped uncover findings and challenge shaken baby syndrome as a diagnosis.

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