GREENVILLE, N.C. (August 12, 2025) — James Richardson, an innocent North Carolina man wrongfully convicted for the murders of two people nearly two decades ago in Pitt County, will have his case back in court later this month as he continues to fight for his freedom.
Richardson’s conviction in 2011 followed a deeply flawed investigation and trial marked by allegations of prosecutorial misconduct, questionable eyewitness testimony, suppressed evidence, and racial bias, including jury intimidation. Key evidence that was withheld at trial disproves the state’s case against Richardson and shows it would have been physically impossible for him to have committed the crime.
Richardson’s case is scheduled for a hearing at 10 a.m. Aug. 26, 2025, before Judge Henry W. Hight, Jr., in Pitt County Superior Court. His attorneys and the Pitt County District Attorney’s Office will make arguments about whether to grant Richardson an evidentiary hearing on his claims for a new trial. He is represented by Southern Coalition for Social Justice (SCSJ) and co-counsel, Tin Fulton, Walker & Owen.
“It is far easier to put an innocent man in prison than it is to get him out,” said Jake Sussman, one of Richardson’s attorneys and Chief Counsel for Justice System Reform at SCSJ. “We are simply asking for the chance to show how flawed James Richardson’s case is, and how the investigation and prosecution resulted in a grave miscarriage of justice. We are proud to stand beside him as he seeks the justice he was denied.”
SCSJ announced last week the release of a trailer for a forthcoming mini-documentary chronicling Richardson’s story. The full documentary will debut later this month.
The upcoming documentary, produced by the organization, offers an intimate look into Richardson’s life, the flaws in the case against him, and the community rallying around his pursuit of justice. The newly released trailer is available now on SCSJ’s website and social media platforms, which will also be updated once the full video is available.
Watch the trailer here.
“Victims and the accused deserve a system that is grounded in accuracy and fairness,” said Abraham Rubert-Schewel, one of Richardson’s attorneys and a partner at Tin Fulton Walker & Owen. “This case lacks both and instead reveals the devastating toll of a wrongful conviction.”
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Southern Coalition for Social Justice, founded in 2007, partners with communities of color and economically disadvantaged communities in the South to defend and advance their political, social, and economic rights through the combination of legal advocacy, research, organizing, and communications. Learn more at southerncoalition.org and follow our work on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
