A dramatic twist has unfolded in the 1993 murder case of James Jordan, father of NBA legend Michael Jordan. Judge Gregory Weeks, who presided over the trial of the men convicted of the crime, has submitted a petition to the North Carolina Parole Commission requesting the release of one of the convicted individuals, Daniel Green.
Weeks’ decision stems from previously undisclosed forensic evidence that he believes could have altered the trial’s outcome. According to Weeks, a forensic blood analyst failed to disclose that tests on a substance found inside James Jordan’s car yielded inconclusive results, contradicting the prosecution’s assertion that Jordan was shot while sleeping in his vehicle.
Green, now 49, has maintained his innocence, claiming he only assisted Larry Demery in disposing of the body. Demery, who took a plea deal, accused Green of being the actual shooter. The case drew widespread attention due to the victim’s connection to Michael Jordan, who was wearing one of his son’s NBA championship rings at the time of his death.
The prosecution’s case was described by former Robeson County District Attorney Johnson Britt as “once-in-a-lifetime” and “the biggest case I’ve ever tried.” The parole commission is expected to deliberate for at least a month before rendering a decision on Green’s potential release.
In a phone interview with ABC News, Green expressed gratitude for Weeks’ efforts, stating, “It speaks volumes about this case, and I’m overwhelmingly grateful.” Green’s attorney, Lauren Miller, has reiterated his client’s claim of innocence, stating that he will continue to fight for a retrial.
The hearing marks a significant development in the case, which has been the subject of controversy and speculation for over three decades. The case initially led to Michael Jordan’s first retirement from basketball, and the new developments have raised hopes for a possible resolution to the long-standing case.
