State v. Knolly Brown
About the Case
In State v. Knolly Brown, the Commission conducted a hearing on December 9 and 10, 2015. The Commission voted unanimously that there was sufficient evidence of factual innocence to merit judicial review. At that time, the case was referred to a three-judge panel.
The three-judge panel hearing was held in Edgecombe County on May 27, 2016. The three-judge panel conducted an evidentiary hearing. At the close of the evidence, Mr. Brown’s attorney moved for a finding of innocence and a declaration of exoneration, and was joined in the motion by the Assistant District Attorney. The three-judge panel ruled that Mr. Brown had proven his innocence by clear and convincing evidence. Mr. Brown was exonerated.
The documents presented at the Commission hearing became public record and are included here. The transcript of the Commission hearing is available for viewing ONLY. If you would like to purchase a printed copy of the hearing transcript please contact Ira Anderson at P.O. Box 6348, Concord, NC 28027 or (704) 467-4950.
The transcript of the three-judge panel hearing are available for viewing ONLY. If you would like to purchase a copy of the hearing transcript please contact Jean McInerney at 641 Sand Trap Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 or (252) 442-6688.
Documents related to the three judge panel are held by the Clerk of Court in the county of conviction and are not managed by the Commission. You may contact the Edgecombe County Clerk of Court regarding any documents related to the three judge panel.
Resources
State v. Knolly Brown Commission Brief
State v. Knolly Brown Hearing Transcript
State v. Knolly Brown Commission Hearing PowerPoint Presentation
State v. Knolly Brown Commission Hearing Handouts
State v. Knolly Brown Commission Opinion
State v. Knolly Brown Three Judge Panel Transcript
State v. Knolly Brown Three Judge Panel Opinion