Joseph Jefferson-Dust was wrongfully convicted of Criminal Endangerment in 2017 following a false accusation. He became a Montana Innocence Project client in 2022 when his accuser fully recanted. In an incredible turn of events, Yellowstone County Prosecutor Sarah Hyde acted swiftly upon recognizing the lack of evidence and moved the Court to vacate the conviction.
On July 28th, 2023, Joe appeared before Judge Brett Linneweber who relieved him from all duties of his sentence, and indicated that he would vacate the conviction.
On February 14th, 2024, Judge Linneweber set aside the judgments against Joe and ordered a new trial.
Today, MTIP is thrilled to share that Judge Linneweber dismissed our client Joseph Jefferson-Dust’s criminal case, upon the prosecution’s motion.
“Up until today I always had feelings of anxiety, fear, and the uncertainty of what’s going to happen,” Joe said after receiving the news of his exoneration. “Now that this came through, all those feelings are gone. I am still waiting for it to really sink in, but right now I am feeling a great sense of relief.”
Click here to learn more about Joe and his innocence case, and follow MTIP on social media @BigSkyInnocence for more updates on Joe’s reentry journey!