Man who spent decades on death row in Utah ordered released on bail after no DNA match

Key Points:

• A Utah judge ordered the release on bail of Douglas Stewart Carter, who spent decades on death row for a 1985 murder, after new DNA evidence excluded him as a match to blood and genetic material found at the crime scene.
• Carter was originally convicted based on a coerced confession and witness testimony that was later recanted, with the Utah Supreme Court citing police misconduct and ordering a new trial last year.
• The judge required Carter to wear a GPS monitor and avoid contact with the victim's family, while defense attorneys emphasized the psychological impact of his 41 years of incarceration.
• Prosecutors withdrew their intent to seek the death penalty and stated that reassessing bail was fair as the investigation continues, though the family of the victim expressed concerns about Carter's release and desire for continued justice.
• Defense attorneys highlighted evidence suppression and pointed to other potential suspects, including the victim’s late husband, while key witnesses revealed they were bribed and threatened by police to implicate Carter.