A Maryland judge on Friday ruled that Adnan Syed, a convicted murderer who was the focus of a long-form radio show, "Serial," will be allowed to introduce new evidence in the case.

More trending stories

The judge ordered a new hearing on two issues, one involving an alibi witness and the other concerning cel phone tower evidence in the trial.

Syed is currently serving a life sentence.

The first season of "Serial," which included 12 episodes, told the story of Syed, a Baltimore high school student who was found guilty in 2000 of murdering his ex-girlfriend Hae Min Lee. "Serial," hosted by veteran radio producer and former Baltimore Sun reporter Sarah Koenig, won a Peabody Award this year.

Syed is serving life in prison. The podcast raised questions about evidence, witnesses and the effectiveness of Syed's attorney, who was later disbarred. The series grew more popular as each episode aired, and inspired listeners to debate Syed's guilt or innocence.

Pandora said more than 8 million people have downloaded each episode of the first season of "Serial."

In September, Maryland attorneys said Syed shouldn't be granted a new trial after his lawyer argued that cell tower data placing Syed near the murder scene was unreliable.

Popular 'Serial' podcast to also be available on Pandora

The top-rated and popular podcast "Serial," which became a white-hot success on iTunes last year, is expanding its reach to streaming service Pandora this year.

Once "Serial" premieres, episodes will be available Thursdays at 6 a.m. EST, Pandora said.

The series will still be available on iTunes and other podcast apps.

A premiere date for season two of "Serial" hasn't been announced, but season one will be available on Pandora on Nov. 24.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Foo Fighters closed out Shaky Knees 2024 at Central Park with extended versions of their biggest hits. The indie rock festival has moved to Piedmont Park for this weekend's event. (Ryan Fleisher for the AJC)

Credit: Ryan Fleisher

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com