'Beatrice 6' Wrongfully Convicted Asking for Compensation

By: Stephanie Morrissey - Email

Updated: Fri 5:39 PM, Sep 14, 2012

Friday, two of the Beatrice 6 walked into the courtroom expecting to leave with a decision. They're both seeking compensation after being wrongfully convicted nearly 30 years ago.

James Dean, Ada JoAnn Taylor and four others were sentenced in connection with the rape and murder of 68-year old Helen Wilson back in Beatrice in 1985.

Later DNA evidence proved the Beatrice 6's innocence and helped lead police to the man responsible.

In 2008, Dean and Taylor were both pardoned, pushing the Nebraska Legislature to create a law providing up to $500,000 in compensation for those wrongfully accused in the state.

This week, Dean and Taylor appeared in court, asking for the full amount after for decades of punishment.

"You know, JoAnn Taylor, from all the testimony you've heard, believed at time she gave the testimony under oath that that was her truth," said Taylor's Attorney, Bob Bartle.

"The plaintiffs have stipulated that they made false statements, that no in contest in this case," said Stephanie Caldwell, Nebraska Attorney General's Office.

Dean served five years while Taylor did almost 20. This was a point made by the attorney general's office.

Friday afternoon, Caldwell asked that if the judge were to give compensation that it not be equal amounts. Dean and Taylor's attorneys argue that even $500,000 isn't enough.

Now the pair will have to wait another week until they have their answer.

The judge said he'd planned on having a decision made by Friday but there were just to many arguments and facts to sort through. He'll have a final decision next Friday, September 20.