Kankakee County Conviction Integrity Unit
Description
The Kankakee County Conviction Integrity Unit is an investigatory branch of the District Attorney's office that looks into claims of innocence. Their first task is to determine whether or not petitions to the court that make claims of innocence meet the eligibility criteria established by the District Attorney's office. In order to have a case investigated by the Conviction Integrity Unit, individuals must present fresh evidence not previously considered by the court or demonstrate how new advancements in technology allow for more accurate and comprehensive testing of existing evidence. The unit is only able to consider claims of innocence from currently incarcerated individuals who hold a conviction from the Kankakee County Superior Court. Those who meet eligibility requirements receive a full and unbiased investigation into their claims and evidentiary support. While the primary function of the unit is to consider claims of innocence, they will occasionally investigate other claims of wrongful conviction or unfairly harsh sentencing when supported by credible evidence.