The issue before the U.S. Supreme Court in Skinner v. Switzer might rest on technical legal arguments, as discussed in the Oct. 14 news story "Drama is missing in DNA death row case," but Henry W. Skinner's case raises a much larger concern. Mr. Skinner has fought with state officials for over a decade to obtain DNA testing in his murder case.
As a rape survivor, I know firsthand that DNA testing is one of the most powerful tools at our criminal justice system's disposal.
Twenty-six years ago, my life was forever altered when a man broke into my home and raped me. I was positive that I was able to identify my attacker. I picked Ronald Cotton out of two lineups and twice identified him in court. After being found guilty, Mr. Cotton sought DNA testing. This testing proved that I was wrong, that the criminal justice system was wrong and that Mr. Cotton was innocent. It also identified the true perpetrator.
I spent 11 years believing that an innocent man raped me. Post-conviction DNA testing revealed the truth in my case and enabled me to find closure. I hope that the court will rule in Mr. Skinner's favor so that, whether DNA tests prove him innocent or guilty, there can be closure for all those involved.
Jennifer Thompson, Winston Salem, N.C.
The writer is a member of the North Carolina Actual Innocence Commission.
