Wrongful Conviction Case to Cost Hudson Valley Taxpayers Nearly $10 Million

Dewey Bozella was convicted in 1983 and again in 1990 for murder in a case that has now been overturned. In 2009, it was determined he should get a new trial due to the fact that prosecutors withheld evidence.

The Poughkeepsie Journal is reporting that Dutchess County has settled the wrongful conviction case for nearly $10 million, including the actual $7.5 million settlement along with interest and legal fees. Bozella had originally sued for $25 million.

The matter is further complicated by the fact that the counties insurance company is refusing to cover the sum. This basically means the cost will inadvertently be passed on the the tax payers of Dutchess, if county-led appeals fail.

Bozella was wrongly convicted in the 1977 murder of a 92-year-old woman by the name of Emma Crasper. She was brutally murdered in her Poughkpeepsie apartment.