MINNEAPOLIS - Marvin Haynes, a Minnesota man who spent 17 years behind bars for the murder of a flower shop employee in 2004, has been released from prison after a judge overturned his conviction on Monday. The ruling was based on unconstitutional witness identification and a lack of physical evidence tying Haynes to the crime.

Haynes, who was sentenced to life in prison when he was 17 years old for the murder of 55-year-old Randy Sherer, was greeted by supporters outside the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Stillwater as he walked out a free man. Throughout his incarceration, Haynes maintained his innocence, stating that no physical evidence connected him to the crime.

The decision to overturn Haynes' conviction was made by a judge who identified the use of unconstitutional witness identification in the case, as stated in the order. Additionally, there was a lack of physical evidence that could definitively link Haynes to the murder.

Expressing his gratitude, Haynes released a statement, saying, "I want to thank the Great North Innocence Project, Julie Jonas, my family and friends, and everyone who supported me through this long journey." Julie Jonas, the former legal director of the Great North Innocence Project, played a crucial role in advocating for Haynes' innocence.

Both Haynes' family and the Hennepin County Attorney's Office have announced plans to hold a joint press conference at noon on Monday to discuss this significant development. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty acknowledged the injustice that occurred two decades ago, stating, "Almost 20 years ago, a terrible injustice occurred when the state prosecuted Marvin Haynes. We inflicted harm on Mr. Haynes and his family, and also on [Randy] Sherer, the victim, his family, and the community."

In recent weeks, Haynes had the opportunity to present evidence of his innocence before Judge William Koch in Hennepin County. The judge conducted two days of hearings last month, leading to this groundbreaking decision that has finally allowed Haynes to reclaim his freedom.

While the overturning of Haynes' conviction is a step towards rectifying the wrongs committed in this case, the trauma experienced by those impacted cannot be undone. However, it marks a turning point and brings hope for justice and closure for all parties involved.

Haynes' case serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the tireless efforts made by organizations like the Great North Innocence Project in seeking justice for those who may have been wrongfully convicted. As Haynes begins his journey towards rebuilding his life, the spotlight remains on the need for integrity and fairness within the criminal justice system.