Ken Hovland - One Year Free 2

One year ago today Washington Innocence Project client Ken Hovland saw a full day of freedom for the first time in 40 years.

Just as our clients counted each and every traumatic year they remained innocent and in prison, Washington Innocence Project honors every moment that one of our Freed Family walks free with their life, their liberty, and in their own pursuit of happiness and healing.

This week marks one year since Ken walked out of the Washington State Reformatory in Monroe for the first time in 4 decades. Ken was convicted in Snohomish County based on microscopic hair comparison and bite mark evidence in 1982, and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. We presented prosecutors with evidence that these forensic methods have been deeply discredited, resulting in the conviction of countless innocent people. 

Ken was a 22 year-old father of two when he went into custody in 1981. After making the difficult decision to enter an Alford Plea in exchange for his immediate release, Ken was freed on October 6, 2021. He was 62 years old.

Today Ken is working to rebuild his life and hopes to travel the country selling his artwork and jewelry while raising awareness about wrongful convictions.

Washington Innocence Project is proud to honor and celebrate the anniversaries of our clients’ release. We invite you to join us in supporting our Freed Family by donating here.