Criminal Justice students host panel examining local murder case

Heartland Community College students and the general public will have an opportunity to learn about the case of Jamie Snow and the factors that contribute to proving wrongful convictions. 

On Thursday, October 2, Heartland Criminal Justice program students will host speakers and panelists who will discuss the Jaime Snow and the use of DNA in both convictions and exonerations. The event will be held in the Astroth Community Education Center (ACEC) auditorium on the Main Campus in Normal. 

Snow was convicted of the 1991 murder of William Little, who was working as a gas station attendant in Bloomington, Illinois. Advocates, who include attorney and bestselling author John Grisham, are critical of the conduct of prosecutors and witness testimony in Snow’s initial trial, as well as the refusal of the court to allow DNA evidence in appeals. 

Two speaking panels will be held during the symposium:

9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. - "The Jamie Snow Case"

• Panelists include:
  • Nicole Snow and Jessica Snow (Jamie Snow’s daughters)
  • Alan Beaman (McLean County exoneree)

11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. - "DNA, Truth, and Testing"

• Panelists include:
  • Alan Beaman
  • Edit Brady-Lunny (journalist)
  • Lauren Myerscough -Mueller (attorney)
  • Nicole Snow
  • Pay Wilson (Retired Police Chief, Holmdel, NJ) 

This event is free and open to the community. Local organizations will be present providing information regarding social services, mental health, and the re-entry process for formerly incarcerated individuals. 

The event is funded through Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (LASS) Innovative Grant funds established by Heartland. 

Heartland Community College is located at 1500 W. Raab Road, Normal, IL.