Story perspectives

Louisiana Bill Targets Exonerated Clerk’s Office, Highlights Exoneree Unemployment

5/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Louisiana lawmakers sent a bill to the governor to abolish Orleans Parish clerk’s office held by exonerated Calvin Duncan, while exonerees face high unemployment and receive no reentry assistance.
A 2018 Prison Policy Initiative study found former prisoners unemployed at 27 percent, versus a 4.3 percent national rate.
After Innocence and the Deskovic Foundation provide training, housing and lobby for compensation, Richard Miles, released in 2009, secured a warehouse job after rejection.

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Story summary

Louisiana lawmakers sent a bill to the governor to abolish Orleans Parish clerk’s office held by exonerated Calvin Duncan, while exonerees face high unemployment and receive no reentry assistance.
A 2018 Prison Policy Initiative study found former prisoners unemployed at 27 percent, versus a 4.3 percent national rate.
After Innocence and the Deskovic Foundation provide training, housing and lobby for compensation, Richard Miles, released in 2009, secured a warehouse job after rejection.