WM3 Press Conference

Former Nypd HOMICIDE Detective Seeks New Evidence in West Memphis Three Case

Launches Confidential New Evidence Tip Line --(501) 256-1775

Former NYPD homicide detective Jay Salpeter, who uncovered crucial new evidence leading to the exoneration of Martin Tankleff, has joined the effort to free the West Memphis 3. Private investigator Salpeter will ask the public’s help in his investigation seeking the truth in the murders of the young boys. Lorri Davis and others leading the effort to free Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin and Jessie Misskelley, will join him at a news conference on Tuesday, April 14 at 10:30 a.m. at Trios, Pavilion Room, 8201 Cantrell, Little Rock.

“There are people who may have information about what really happened the night three 8-year-old boys were tragically murdered in West Memphis in 1993. I am convinced there are those who can help provide new evidence in this case and now want to do the right thing. Please call the confidential tip line and tell me what you know that can prevent the execution of Damien Echols and free these innocent men,” said Salpeter.

Salpeter is interested in meeting with the man found injured in Bojangles’ Restaurant on the night of murders. “He may have seen something that night that could prove crucial.”

Echols, Baldwin and Misskelley were convicted in 1994 for a crime they did not commit, and have served 16 years in prison. No physical evidence, eyewitness testimony or motive tied the three local teens to the murders, only a coerced, false confession that was immediately disavowed. Damien Echols was sentenced to death; Jessie Misskelley and Jason Baldwin were sentenced to life imprisonment. New DNA and forensic evidence proves that these men were wrongfully convicted.

Who: Investigator Jay Salpeter

What:  Launch confidential tip line and provide latest news on legal efforts to gain new trial

When:  Tuesday, April 14, 2009 – 10:30 a.m.

Where:   Trios, Pavilion Room 8201 Cantrell, Little Rock, AR