November 17, 2025
Duncan believes time is of the essence to many inmates when coping with paperwork that may help in exonerations.
Calvin Duncan, who spent greater than 28 years in jail earlier than his homicide conviction was overturned, was elected as Orleans Parish Felony Court docket Clerk by the residents of New Orleans.
Duncan, an advocate and legal professional, secured 38,681 votes, about 68% of the vote, within the Nov. 15 run-off election, in line with the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Workplace.
Duncan mentioned he ran for clerk as a result of he noticed first-hand how lengthy it took incarcerated individuals to get primary paperwork and to have their circumstances reviewed.
In a press convention, he spoke candidly about his time as an inmate and the difficulties he confronted whereas navigating his case. Duncan believes time is of the essence to many inmates when coping with paperwork that may help in exonerations.
“Tonight is a dream that’s been 40 years within the making,” Duncan mentioned. “I hope that each one these individuals who died in jail as a result of we couldn’t get their information are wanting down now. I hope they’re happy with me. We by no means stopped combating for one another’s rights, and I’ll by no means cease combating for yours. Thanks for this privilege.”
Incumbent Darren Lombard rapidly conceded the race on election evening.
“I need to congratulate Calvin Duncan on his victory,” Lombard mentioned. “I stand able to help a easy {and professional} transition in order that the essential work of this workplace continues with out interruption.”
Duncan spent a long time combating to clear his title in a 1981 deadly capturing, all whereas sustaining his innocence.
After years of looking out, Duncan and different investigators uncovered proof that cops lied in court docket. His conviction was tossed by a choose in 2021. Duncan has since grow to be identified for serving to fellow inmates file their appeals and perceive court docket process.
In 2020, his advocacy helped drive the Supreme Court docket resolution that ended non-unanimous jury convictions in Louisiana and Oregon. The states have been the final two states that also allowed the Jim Crow–period observe.
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