A Florida man was imprisoned 37 years for a murder he didn't commit. He's now getting $14m
Robert DuBoise spent nearly four decades behind bars for a crime he didn't commit. Now, after DNA evidence cleared his name, he's set to receive $14 million in compensation from the city of Tampa, Florida.
The Long Road to Justice
In 1983, DuBoise, then 18 years old, was wrongfully convicted of the rape and murder of 19-year-old Barbara Grams. Initially sentenced to death, his punishment was later reduced to life in prison. It wasn't until 2018, with the assistance of the Innocence Project, that new DNA testing not available in the 1980s pointed to two other suspects in the case, leading to DuBoise's exoneration in 2020.
Seeking Redress
Following his release, DuBoise filed a lawsuit against the city of Tampa, alleging wrongful conviction and seeking compensation for the lost years of his life. The lawsuit was settled on January 11, and on Thursday, the Tampa City Council unanimously approved the $14 million settlement. Council members expressed remorse for DuBoise's ordeal and stated that the settlement was the least the city could do for him.
Moving Forward
DuBoise, now 59 years old, was represented by the civil rights law firm Loevy & Loevy. In a statement, the firm emphasized that the settlement not only acknowledges the harm DuBoise endured but also provides him with an opportunity to rebuild his life. DuBoise, who works as a maintenance director at a Tampa-area country club, expressed relief that the legal battle is over. He plans to use the settlement to purchase a house and move forward with his life.
Reflections on Justice
In a brief interview after the settlement approval, DuBoise expressed gratitude that his ordeal has finally come to an end. Despite the years of wrongful imprisonment, he stated that he harbors no bitterness and is focused on moving forward. He emphasized that material possessions cannot replace what he lost but expressed hope for a brighter future.
Acknowledgment of Errors
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw issued a statement recognizing the profound impact of DuBoise's case and stating that advancements in technology and training have improved investigative practices. The settlement terms dictate that DuBoise and his legal team will receive $9 million this year, $3 million next year, and $2 million in 2026.
The Search for Justice
Grams' brutal murder in 1983 shook the Tampa community. However, flawed investigative techniques led to DuBoise's wrongful conviction, with a forensic dentist attributing a bite mark on the victim to DuBoise, despite his innocence. Recent DNA testing implicated two other suspects, Amos Robinson and Abron Scott, who are currently facing charges in Grams' murder.
A New Chapter
DuBoise's long-awaited exoneration marks the end of a painful chapter in his life. Despite the injustices he faced, he remains optimistic about the future and grateful for the support he has received. As he moves forward, he hopes his story will serve as a reminder of the importance of pursuing justice, even in the face of adversity.
By: Sahiba Suri
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