The effects of confessions on misconduct and guilty pleas in exonerations: Implications for discovery policies

Abstract Research Summary Using data from the National Registry of Exonerations, we examined how presence confession evidence impacts prosecutors’ tendency in order to (1) commit misconduct any form (e.g., permitting perjury and witness tampering) (2) specifically withhold exculpatory (i.e., favorable defense). We assess these relationships particularly context wrongful convictions by guilty plea an innocent individual false [FGP]) or verdict at trial. show confessions increased likelihood prosecutors engaging generally withholding specifically. However, prosecutorial decreased odds a conviction via FGP compared verdict. Policy Implications Policies encouraging transparency accountability are needed better identify when it occurs, pleas. Open‐file discovery policies, which aim provide full transparency, may prevent intentionally unintentionally faced with strong like confession, could ultimately decrease potential conviction.