Convicted murderer at heart of ‘Serial’ podcast can introduce new evidence, judge says
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.
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.
