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Occult Image Used As Evidence Over Forensics
- The trial atmosphere prioritized sensational themes over hard evidence, letting occult imagery and music be used as proof of guilt.
- Judges and prosecutors repeatedly cited Damien Echols' interest in witchcraft and black clothing as material evidence despite its irrelevance.
Counselor Confessed He Coached Key Witness
- A juvenile counselor admitted he coached Michael Carson about crime scene details he later testified to, undermining that testimony.
- The counselor said he tried to testify to this but was blocked by the judge, so the false testimony stood in court.
Judge's Private Meetings Blocked Fair Appeals
- Judge Burnett privately met prosecutors without defense counsel and then denied appeals, creating a conflict that blocked relief.
- Burnett later presided over appeals about his own conduct, effectively preventing impartial review.