Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of racism and death.

The author delves into the story of Joe Bryan, a school principal in Texas who was wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife, Mickey Bryan, in 1985. The chapter recounts their idyllic life together and the devastating events that followed Mickey’s brutal killing, highlighting flaws in the justice system and the devastating impact on Joe’s life.

Joe and Mickey Bryan were well-respected educators and were deeply in love and active in their community in Clifton, Texas. Their peaceful life was shattered when Mickey was found murdered in their home while Joe attended a conference 120 miles away. Despite his alibi and a lack of evidence, Joe became the focus of a rushed investigation led by Texas Ranger Joe Wilie. With no clear motive or evidence linking Joe to the crime, investigators speculated baselessly, including insinuations about Joe’s sexuality, to frame a narrative of guilt.

The prosecution’s case hinged on flimsy and circumstantial evidence, most notably a flashlight with specks of what was claimed to be blood found in Joe’s car. However, this evidence was dubious. The flashlight was discovered by Mickey’s brother, Charlie Blue, under suspicious circumstances after being removed from Joe’s possession for days.