American Justice: A Son's Confession

The worst in police work is highlighted in the A&E program American Justice: A Son's Confession. Host Bill Kurtis takes the viewer back to Connecticut to explore a shameful chapter of murder investigation. When 18-year-old Peter Reilly discovered his mother brutally murdered in her home in 1973, his grief was displaced by shock as he was taken into custody. Following a grueling 25-hour interrogation in which he was denied representation, food, or sleep, the confused Reilly confessed. Based on his admission, he was convicted of murder and sentenced to 16 years in prison. Friends and strangers, including award-winning playwright Arthur Miller rallied around the young man, eventually gaining him a new trial. But, Reilly was denied his day in court when the prosecution released him based on new evidence. Now, in this video, Reilly seeks retribution through the clarity of DNA testing. In an attempt to clear his name, Reilly stirs up an embarrassing past.