(1/3) For Edward Martinez, May 24 has held a profound significance for the past 21 years, marking the birth of his daughter, Freedom. Now, over two decades later, this already meaningful date has taken on an even greater significance for Martinez and his family. On May 24, 2024—Freedom’s birthday—Edward Martinez walked free from Northern Neck Regional Jail. Embraced by a large gathering of family, friends, and supporters who helped advocate for his freedom, Martinez could finally begin the difficult process of rebuilding his life after a wrongful conviction for first-degree murder. Martinez agreed to be released on a time-served sentence in exchange for not pursuing the numerous Brady claims that resulted in his wrongful conviction. His case highlights a difficult choice many wrongfully convicted individuals face: accept a plea deal to gain immediate release, or continue the legal battle, risking many more years—or even a lifetime—in prison, separated from their families. This strugg...