Shocking New Study Reveals Michigan’s Wrongful Conviction Rate

When it comes to wrongful, Michigan, congratulations...we're not first! But we're not far off. A new study by Omega Law Group ranked Michigan second in the nation for miscarriages of justice, right behind Illinois, which took the crown for most wrongful convictions in the country.

RELATED: Fifth Inmate Dies In 'Fall' From Jackson, Michigan Prison Balcony

From 2020 to 2024, Michigan clocked in with 5.98 wrongful convictions per 100,000 residents. That doesn't sound like too bad an average...unless you're one of the 5.98 people who spend an average of 17 years behind bars for a crime you didn't commit.

Why Michigan's Wrongful Conviction Problem Demands Attention

Look, I'm not saying I know of a better way. I don't. However, according to the National Registry of Exonerations, where Omega Law Group gathered its data, far too many innocent people become entangled in the justice system.

According to the study, experts estimate that 4-6% of prisoners nationwide are serving time for a crime they weren't involved in. But that doesn't mean all states are dealing with the issue; South Carolina had just one wrongful conviction in 5 years.

If Michigan's #2 for Wrongful Convictions, Where Does the Rest of the US Stack Up

While Michigan had an average of 5.98 wrongful convictions in those 5 years, that's not even half of the cases Illinois dealt with. That amount is staggering to say the least.

RELATED: Michigan Department Of Corrections Most Wanted Escapees

Here's a look at the Omega Law Group's 50-state ranking for wrongful convictions in America.