Two Men’s Lives Were Torn Apart by Police Lies. It Took Decades to Get Justice

November 11, 2025

Two Chicago men, James Gibson and Keith Smith, were wrongfully convicted of a 1989 double murder after being tortured by detectives under the command of Jon Burge, who led a group that abused at least 130 people. Both childhood friends from the same block were coerced into false confessions through brutal physical abuse and served over two decades in prison, losing their parents during their incarceration. Gibson maintained his innocence throughout and was eventually exonerated in 2019, receiving a certificate of innocence and a $14.

Who is affected

James Gibson and Keith Smith (the two wrongfully convicted men)
At least 130 known torture victims of Jon Burge and his detectives
Gibson's and Smith's family members, including their mothers who died during their imprisonment
Gibson's sister who filed the initial complaint
Smith's sisters who gave false testimony
The City of Chicago (financially responsible for the settlement)

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are described in the article. The settlement has already been finalized and ratified, Gibson has already been released and received his payment, and Smith has already been released.

Why it matters

This case exposes systemic police torture and misconduct that destroyed innocent lives for decades, demonstrating how law enforcement abuse can lead to wrongful convictions. It highlights the cruel irony of the justice system where Smith's pragmatic decision to accept an Alford plea—allowing him to see his dying parents—permanently bars him from financial compensation, while Gibson's ability to maintain his innocence claim longer ultimately secured him millions. The story reveals lasting consequences of wrongful imprisonment, including psychological trauma, lost time with loved ones, and the impossibility of true restitution regardless of monetary awards.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint