US Judge sets free Adnan Syed in girlfriend’s murder case after over 20 years in jail

Adnan Syed was given life imprisonment for killing his girlfriend in 1999. On Monday, Melissa Phinee, a judge in Baltimore, ordered his release as she overturned the 1999 conviction. She stated the state did not comply with its legal obligation in which it was required to share evidence of exculpatory nature with Adnan's defense.

Phinn ordered home detention with GPS for Syed. She gave the state 30 days to decide whether it wanted to dismiss the case or seek a new trial. Phinn said Syed was free to join his family as the hearing concluded. Syed noticeably smiled as he went through a sea of supporters and cameras into an SUV. Hae Min Lee was only 18 when she was killed and strangled. She was found in Leakin Park in Baltimore in 1999, buried.

Officials led Syed into a courtroom in cuffs, where he sat with his attorney. Marilyn Mosby, the state attorney, and Adnan's family were in the crowded courtroom.




Adnan Syed's case received recognition after a "Serial" showed his story, raising doubts over the evidence that was used. Sarah Koenig created the true-crime series, which won the Peabody Award. A Maryland judge was skeptical about the cellphone evidence, which convicted Adnan and asked for a new trial in 2016. Rabia Chaudry, Syed's lawyer, says that Syed is innocent and Rabia and her family believe him.

Syed is Rabia's brother's best friend and like a brother to her. Lee's family accused Syed of killing their daughter and were understandably distraught when they saw many people in Syed's support. The family said they watched the trial and the evidence, unlike many who learned about it online. While the state asked for a retrial, the Supreme Court in Maryland denied it.

FAQs

Q1. Why was Adnan Syed in prison for two decades?
A1. Adnan Syed was convicted for his girlfriend's murder in 1999. The judge sentenced him to life imprisonment for killing Hae Min Lee.

Q2. Is Adnan Syed guilty or innocent?
A2. Several people believe Adnan is innocent, including his lawyer and her family. On the other hand, Lee's family believes he killed their daughter.