: In recent years, evidence once thought destroyed—including the shoelaces—was found intact. As of April 2026, the Arkansas Supreme Court and lower courts have cleared the way for advanced M-Vac DNA testing on these items to identify the real perpetrator.
In 2011, new DNA evidence was discovered that cast doubt on the guilt of the West Memphis Three. The evidence, which included DNA samples from the crime scene, was found to not match any of the defendants. This new evidence led to a significant public outcry and calls for the release of the three men. west memphis 3 crime scene photos hot
'West Memphis Three' freed after 18 years in prison - BBC News The evidence, which included DNA samples from the
The trials of the West Memphis Three were highly publicized, with many questioning the fairness of the proceedings. The prosecution's case was criticized for relying on dubious evidence, including a supposed Satanic ritual motive. The prosecution's case was criticized for relying on
A "fresh carving" with the initials "ME" was found on a tree near the site, which the prosecution later attempted to link to Damien Echols (whose birth name was Michael Echols ) . Forensic Controversy and the "Satanic Panic"