Presumed Guilty is a 2018 true crime documentary series from Ares Film. The show examines the case of Steven Avery, a Wisconsin man who was convicted of a sexual assault and served 18 years in prison before being exonerated by DNA evidence. Shortly after his release, Avery was arrested and charged with the murder of a young woman named Teresa Halbach.
The series follows Avery's trial from the perspective of his defense team, which includes two lawyers from the Innocence Project. It also features interviews with members of Avery's family, Halbach's friends and family, and members of law enforcement.
The first episode of Presumed Guilty introduces the case and sets the stage for the trial. It shows how Avery's previous wrongful conviction has made him a controversial figure in Manitowoc County, where he lives. The episode also introduces the victim, Teresa Halbach, and provides background on the evidence that was used to link Avery to her murder.
Throughout the series, Avery's defense team argues that he was framed by law enforcement officials who had a grudge against him. They point to inconsistencies in the evidence, including the fact that Avery's DNA was found on Halbach's car key, but none of his fingerprints were found on the key or the car itself. They also argue that the confession of Brendan Dassey, Avery's nephew, was coerced by the police.
Presumed Guilty does an excellent job of presenting both sides of the case. Prosecutors argue that Avery had a motive for killing Halbach, and that there is plenty of circumstantial evidence to support their case. They also argue that Dassey's confession was voluntary and consistent with the physical evidence.
The show also explores the impact that the trial had on the community. Manitowoc County was deeply divided over the case, with many people supporting Avery and others convinced of his guilt. The series features interviews with members of both groups, highlighting the emotional toll that the case took on everyone involved.
One of the strengths of Presumed Guilty is the way it interweaves the legal and personal aspects of the case. The series presents a compelling argument for why Avery might be innocent, but it also shows the human side of the story. Viewers get to see how the trial affected Avery's family, particularly his parents, who are both in poor health. The show also highlights the pain and uncertainty that the Halbach family went through in the wake of Teresa's murder.
Another standout aspect of the show is the way it uses visuals to tell the story. The series features footage from the trial, as well as interviews with key players in the case. It also uses recreations and animations to explain complex legal concepts and illustrate how the evidence fits together.
Presumed Guilty is an intense and gripping series that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. It provides a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of a high-profile case, and shines a light on some of the flaws in the criminal justice system. Whether viewers believe that Avery is guilty or innocent, they will come away from the series with a deeper understanding of the case and the people involved.
Presumed Guilty is a series that ran for 5 seasons (22 episodes) between March 15, 2016 and on Ares Film
