For more than two decades, Ralph Blaine Smith lived behind prison walls for something he said he never did.
The Ohio man entered prison at just 24 years old and spent 21 years there.
His story is now drawing attention after a court awarded him a $1.3 million settlement following his release.
Smith was originally convicted over an alleged armed home invasion and robbery in Pickerington, Ohio in 2000.
But according to his attorney Joseph Landusky, the evidence never supported the claim.
Investigators reportedly found no footprints in fresh snow, no tire tracks, and neighbors said their barking dog never reacted… raising serious doubts about whether any crime occurred.
While imprisoned, Smith spent hours each day studying law in the prison library and that dedication eventually helped him win the case.
The judge dismissed the case and Smith walked free but experience taught him to appreciate life and focus on what truly matters.
