BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — One year ago today, a man who spent 27 years behind bars for a murder he did not commit was released from prison.
Valentino Dixon's three convictions were vacated by an Erie County Court Judge September 19th, 2018.
Since his release, Dixon has gained a lot of international attention for his artwork-- including meeting pro golfer Tiger Woods.
Here's a look back at Dixon's story:
Guilty plea could free man wrongly incarcerated for 27 years
A Buffalo man confessed to a murder he committed in August of 1991. Lamarr Scott pleaded guilty before an Erie County Court judge, admitting to killing 17-year-old Torriano Jackson. Another man-- Valentino Dixon-- had already been found guilty of Jackson's murder. Scott's confession allowed for Dixon's eventual release.
Wrongfully convicted man free after 27 years
Dixon was released later the same day that Scott pleaded guilty. He had spent 27 years in prison, maintaining innocence throughout his incarceration.
Artist in Attica: Man wrongfully convicted of murder draws global interest for his artwork
Dixon's 27 years spent in prison is reason enough to draw attention. But it is his immense collection of golf course drawings that really sparked the intrigue, first highlighted by Golf Digest magazine. Dixon had drawn hundreds of courses during his time in prison, despite never actually being at a golf course. He was able to go for the first time after his release.
Tiger Woods and Valentino Dixon: Two comeback stories collide at Augusta National
Tiger Woods is not the only comeback story at The Masters in 2018. Valentino Dixon spent the weekend at Augusta National to showcase his artwork. He was able to meet Woods while he was there.
Today, Dixon is fulfilling a dream: mentoring teens. He was also recently in Florida recording a TV show in which he teaches professional athletes how to draw.
