Jan. 26: Man exonerated after 12 years on death row files grievance

HOUSTONAnthony Graves spent more than 18 years in prison with 12 of them on death row before a court overturned his conviction and set him free. Now he is filing a first of its kind grievance against the former prosecutor who helped put him behind bars.

Charles Sebesta was accused of prosecutorial misconduct as the case against Anthony Graves unraveled as experts concluded there was never enough evidence to ever bring him to trial.

A new law passed in September now gives inmates four years to bring grievances against prosecutors AFTER their release from jail, rather than watching their legal opportunity to file slip away while they are imprisoned.

Graves is passionate about what he would ultimately like to see happen to his former prosecutor. "I think criminal charges should be brought against Mr. Sebesta," he said. "I think they should be attempted murder charges because he tried to execute me twice for something he knew I was innocent of.

Graves is joined by attorney Bob Bennett who says he likes Graves chances to succeed.

For a look at what former prosecutor Charles Sebesta thinks about this latest action against him, go to his website: http://www.charlessebesta.net/

Also this week on Houston Newsmakers, the very impressive 5th grader who won this years Martin Luther King Oratory contest. Amari Venzo talks about his keys to success, plans for a very promising future and performs part of his 1st place winning speech.

Houston Newsmakers every Sunday at 10 a.m., right after Meet the Press with David Gregory.

More Information: