Judge Lets Convicted Murderer Out On Bail?

Crazy as it sounds, that’s exactly what Ontario Judge Marvin Catzman did almost 15 years ago. At the bail hearing for Guy Paul Morin, who had been convicted of first degree murder, Catzman said “I would have to be mad if I didn’t see something wrong with this case.” So he followed his instincts, and let Morin out on bail pending his appeal. His instincts were right. Two years later, DNA evidence cleared Morin.

Of the decision to let him out on bail, said Morin yesterday, “For the first time, there was a spark of hope. I thank him to this day.”

Sadly, not many judges would have the guts to make that call. Judge Catzman died on June 14, 2007.