NIJ FY 09 ORE Social Science Research on Exoneration

NIJ is interested in stimulating a scientifically rigorous body of research on the topic of wrongful convictions, specifically focusing on the 200-plus cases of exonerations based on post-conviction DNA examinations, and comparisons of DNA-based and non-DNA-based exonerations. Thus far, there have been over 200 cases of post-conviction DNA exonerations in the United States identified by media and interested organizations; however, there has been little social-science-based research on this topic. This solicitation is intended to support a more expansive and empirical examination of wrongful convictions than currently exists. In particular, this solicitation seeks to fund research on post-conviction DNA exonerations in the investigation, trial, and post-conviction stages of the criminal justice process as well as a comparison to non-DNA exonerations.