“Eric Smokes and David Warren lost decades of their life to an unjust conviction. I am inspired by the unyielding advocacy of Mr. Smokes and Mr. Warren and hope that today’s decision can finally bring them a measure of comfort and justice. I thank our Post-Conviction Justice Unit for its thorough reinvestigation, and to the Court for its careful consideration of this matter,” said District Attorney Bragg. “It is never too late to reconsider the integrity of old convictions, because everyone in New York deserves equal justice under the law.” 

“As alleged, Dafren Canizalez was brutally killed in an attack by a group, who trapped and chased him until he collapsed,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Everyone who comes into our city deserves to be safe, and we will continue to hold those who commit serious acts of violence accountable.”