Jury finds Las Vegas police fabricated evidence in 2001 killing, awards $34M to exonerated woman
Kirstin Lobato, formerly known as Blaise, was wrongfully convicted twice and spent nearly 16 years in a Nevada state prison for a crime she did not commit. She was just 18 years old when she was arrested and charged with the 2001 killing of Duran Bailey in Las Vegas. Despite no physical evidence or witnesses linking her to the crime, Lobato was convicted of manslaughter, mutilation, and weapon charges in 2006.
However, after a long legal battle, Lobato was exonerated and released from prison in 2017. The Innocence Project and attorneys in Las Vegas successfully presented evidence proving that Lobato was not in Las Vegas at the time of the crime, but rather in her hometown of Panaca, Nevada, 150 miles away. This crucial evidence led to the overturning of her conviction and her eventual release from prison.
In a landmark civil trial, a federal jury awarded Lobato over $34 million in compensatory damages after finding that Las Vegas police and two detectives had fabricated evidence during their investigation and intentionally inflicted emotional distress upon her. The jury also ordered each former detective to pay $10,000 in punitive damages.
The decision was met with tears of relief and hugs from Lobato and her attorneys. While the monetary compensation cannot erase the years she spent behind bars, Lobato expressed gratitude that the legal battle was finally over. She acknowledged that the road ahead was uncertain, but she was hopeful for the future.
The detectives involved in Lobato’s wrongful conviction declined to comment on the verdict, with their attorney hinting at a possible appeal. Despite the challenges ahead, Lobato remains determined to move forward with her life.
The case of Kirstin Lobato serves as a stark reminder of the flaws in the criminal justice system and the importance of fighting for justice. Her story of resilience and perseverance in the face of injustice is a testament to the power of innocence and the impact of wrongful convictions.
