DELLWOOD, Mo. — Lamar Johnson has a new job after his wrongful conviction was vacated after 28 years in prison.
According to a press release from the City of Dellwood, Johnson was hired as a full-time employee of the city's public works department after completing the Urban League of St. Louis' "Save Our Sons" job training program.
Editor's note: The above video was published in February of 2023.
"Lamar earned the opportunity to work for the City of Dellwood through his dedication, perseverance, and strong performance during the interview process," the press release said.
His first day on the job is Oct. 23.
Johnson was sentenced to life in prison for the death of Marcus Boyd after Boyd was shot to death on the front porch of his home by two men wearing ski masks on Oct. 30, 1994.
Then-St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner filed a motion in August of 2022 seeking Johnson's release after an investigation her office conducted with help from the Innocence Project convinced her he was telling the truth.
Circuit Judge David Mason overturned Johnson's conviction after a 5-day hearing and 60 days of deliberation.
The press release said Dellwood Mayor Reggie Jones is a "steadfast supporter of providing second chances" and was fully engaged in Lamar’s hiring.
“This is not just about giving someone a second chance, it’s about recognizing talent and perseverance,” said Mayor Jones.
A GoFundMe campaign raised more than $600,000 to help him after his exoneration.
Missouri has a compensation statute that is limited to cases with DNA proof of innocence, leaving Johnson with no support from the state.
In the last 35 years, 55 people with state court convictions in Missouri have been exonerated, according to the National Registry of Exonerations. In 27% of them, DNA was part of the exoneration process. Nationwide, 17% of all exonerations had DNA involved. A spokesperson with the National Registry of Exonerations said that the percentage is likely higher in Missouri because of the state’s long-standing resistance to non-DNA exonerations.