Richey's death sentence overturned

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Kenny Richey was convicted of arson and murder in the state of Ohio in 1986 and sentenced to death on January 27 1987, but has always protested his innocence.

The Sixth Circuit Federal Court of Appeal in Cincinnati overturned Mr Richey's death sentence. The state of Ohio may now release Richey or re-try his case within 90 days.

Mr Richey has a Scottish mother and grew up in Edinburgh.

An Amnesty spokesman said a similar decision was made in 2005, but was later challenged and set aside. The appeal was one of the last available appeals open to Richey.

The human rights organisation called for Mr Richey to be allowed a proper retrial or be released as soon as possible.

John Watson, director of Amnesty International Scotland, said: "This is fantastic news and represents the opportunity that Kenny's long fought for - the chance to clear his name in a proper trial. Nobody should be sent to the living hell of death row, but Kenny Richey's 20-year ordeal came after a flawed trial and serious concerns about the Ohio justice system.

"On the one had it is disturbing that it has taken this long for Ohio to look again at Kenny's case - but now at least Kenny may be on the road to release."

Scottish anti-death penalty campaigner Karen Torley, who has been heavily involved in the long-standing campaign, said: "I am absolutely delighted at today's news - it's been a long, long time coming. We're now hoping that he does get a retrial, so that Kenny actually has the chance to clear his name.

"I have always had full confidence in the fact that Kenny is absolutely innocent - and now Kenny's now one vital step closer to proving that to the world."