Senators hear bills to prevent, overturn wrongful conviction

By AMY BETH HANSON

Associated Press

HELENA — A Montana Senate committee on Tuesday heard testimony on two bills that seek to help prevent and overturn wrongful convictions.

One bill would allow judges to vacate a conviction and order a new trial if they determine new, non-DNA evidence creates “a reasonable probability of a different outcome at a new trial.”

The second bill would require disclosure and a hearing on the reliability of a witness before prosecutors can present testimony from someone who is receiving an incentive, such as a reduced charge. State law already has provisions for grant...