Congratulations to Payten Smith on her successful MA defence

Congratulations to Payten Smith for successfully defending her MA thesis, “Exoneree Reintegration and Resource Access: Examining the Availability, Accessibility and Effectiveness of Post Release Resources”.

ABSTRACT

This study explores exoneree experiences post-release to bring awareness to past and continued obstacles that individuals face even after being exonerated. Although studies have pointed to decreased opportunities in employment, detriment to relationships, and overall stigmatizing attitudes from the public, few focus on providing individuals with a voice nor consider their lived experiences. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted and inductive themes were developed. The aim was to identify exonerees’ experiences in accessing post-release resources to gauge awareness of resource availability, and to identify which resources may be most crucial to reintegration. Results indicate that exonerees feel that little to no resources exist, and some resources are sometimes detrimental as they are not tailored to the needs or reality of a person who has experienced a wrongful conviction. Findings suggest a need for more resources, specifically more tailored resources designed to support individuals in their difficult journey towards healing and reintegration.