chicago tribune

Records: Exonerated Illinois Man to Receive $14M Settlement

Christopher Abernathy's lawyers said he has learning disabilities and was coerced into signing a statement implicating himself

Records show a man who was exonerated after spending 29 years in prison for a 15-year-old girl's rape and murder is to receive a nearly $14 million settlement.

Christopher Abernathy left prison in February 2015 when a judge vacated his life sentence at the request of prosecutors.

The now 52-year-old was convicted in the 1984 death of Kristina Hickey, who had gone missing after a choir concert at Rich East High School in Park Forest. Her body was found two days later.

Abernathy's lawyers said he has learning disabilities and was coerced into signing a statement implicating himself.

The Chicago Tribune reports an agreement signed last month shows two insurers agreed to pay $13.5 million on behalf of the village and its police. Records show the village will pay $200,000.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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