After spending 20 years in jail; Ga. Man exonerated of murder charges

3years ago

Camden County news, Georgia news.

A Georgia inmate who spent two decades behind bars for a 1985 double murder was acquitted Tuesday.

Dennis Perry, 59, was convicted in 2003 of murdering Harold and Thelma Swain who were fatally shot during a church event.

“It took a long time, but I never gave up,” Perry said on Monday. “I knew that eventually someone else would see the truth and I’m so grateful to Georgia Innocence Project and King & Spalding for bringing the truth to light.”

To see also:
  • ‘Ecstatic’ New Jersey double-murder convict walks free after spending 16 years behind bars while innocent
  • Michigan man walks free after spending 16 years behind bars for triple-homicide he didn’t commit
  • “This indictment has been hanging over my head for over 20 years, and it’s such a relief to finally not have to worry about being accused of this awful thing.”

    Perry’s girlfriend’s mom was allegedly paid $12,000 for testifying that he had expressed wishes to slaughter Swain.

    A former deputy involved in Perry’s prosecution was also promised a new job if he were able to solve the double-murder case.

    “I am grateful that this part of the nightmare is behind me,” Perry told reporters.