BOSTON — A single justice of the highest court in Massachusetts has denied prosecutors' request to reinstate the murder conviction of former New England Patriots player Aaron Hernandez.
The conviction in the 2013 fatal shooting of Odin Lloyd was voided by a Superior Court judge in May because Hernandez killed himself in prison. Under Massachusetts legal principle, courts typically erase the convictions of defendants who die before their direct appeals can be heard.
Bristol District Attorney Thomas Quinn III in July filed an appeal with a single justice of the Supreme Judicial Court, saying erasing the conviction would undermine the public's trust in jury verdicts.
In a brief ruling issued Friday, Justice David Lowy said Quinn's request is "exercised only in exceptional circumstances."
Quinn's office did not immediately return a call for comment Monday.
WHAT HAPPENED DURING THE TRIAL:
Monday, March 6: " Defense in Hernandez double murder trial claims new evidence"
Friday, March 10: "Defense calls for mistrial in Aaron Hernandez double murder trial"
Monday, March 13: "Impending nor'easter forces brief delay in Hernandez trial"
NO COURT TUESDAY, MARCH 14
Friday, March 17: "Jury hears from tattoo artist, sees photos from Hernandez's phone"
NO COURT FRIDAY, MARCH 24
Associated Press
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