After enduring an unimaginable 37-year ordeal behind bars in a Florida prison for a crime he did not commit, Robert DuBoise’s long-awaited moment of justice has finally arrived.
The city of Tampa has agreed to provide him with $14 million in compensation, marking the end of a harrowing chapter in his life.
Justice Prevails
The settlement stems from DuBoise’s wrongful conviction for the 1983 rape and murder of 19-year-old Barbara Grams. Despite maintaining his innocence from the outset, DuBoise found himself ensnared in a justice system that failed him, leading to decades of wrongful imprisonment.
However, it wasn’t until 2018, with assistance from the Innocence Project, that new DNA evidence implicated two other individuals in the murder, leading to DuBoise’s exoneration in 2020.
Following his release, DuBoise pursued legal action against the city of Tampa, as well as police officers and forensic experts involved in his wrongful conviction.
The lawsuit was settled on January 11, with the city council scheduled to approve the $14 million compensation.
Florida Man’s Wrongful Conviction
Tampa, Florida Police Chief Lee Bercaw acknowledged the profound impact of the case, emphasizing advancements in investigative techniques and training since DuBoise’s wrongful conviction.
The settlement terms outline payments of $9 million this year, $3 million next year, and $2 million in 2026 to DuBoise and his legal representation.
Notably, new DNA evidence has implicated other individuals, Amos Robinson and Abron Scott, who are currently serving life sentences for a separate crime, in Grams’ murder.
Despite the years of wrongful imprisonment and legal battles, DuBoise expressed gratitude for the resolution of his case, stating, “I prayed to God every day and hoped for it.” He credited the efforts of those who supported him throughout his ordeal and expressed renewed faith in the justice system.
As DuBoise looks ahead to rebuilding his life, the settlement serves as both acknowledgment of the injustice he endured and a step towards closure after decades of wrongful imprisonment.
