Tyrone Noling Seeks Pardon After 30 Years on Death Row

Columbus, Ohio – Tyrone Noling, who has spent three decades on death row claiming innocence for the murder of an elderly Ohio couple, had the opportunity to seek a full pardon from the Ohio Parole Board. This rare chance allows him to present the evidence gathered to support his claims.

Case Background

Noling was convicted for the murders of Bearnhardt and Cora Hartig, a couple in their 80s, at their home on April 5, 1990. When they were found, the bodies lay on the kitchen floor, each shot multiple times. Their home had been ransacked. Authorities initially connected Noling with the murder as part of a group known for robbing elderly couples. Although members of the group originally implicated him, they later retracted their statements, citing police pressure.

Evidence and Support

With support from the Ohio Innocence Project, Noling assembled evidence including recanted witness testimonies and support from the former sheriff and juror. His advocates believe alternative suspects might be responsible, including a man already executed for another crime. Additionally, no physical evidence ties Noling to the Hartig murders.

The Ohio Parole Board’s hearing marked the first for an Ohio death row inmate in over three years. A positive recommendation will proceed to Gov. Mike DeWine, who can decide on clemency. DeWine has publicly questioned the efficacy of the death penalty as a deterrent to crime.

Public Interest

The case attracted attention from celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and actors Hilarie Burton and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who support Noling’s release. Documentaries and podcasts have covered his story, further amplifying public interest.

Next Steps

Witnesses, including former Portage County Sheriff Ken Howe, testified on Noling’s behalf. Howe has openly supported the claim of Noling’s innocence due to emerging evidence. Portage County Prosecutor Connie Lewandowski and defense attorney Caitlin Flanagan did not issue public comments immediately after the hearing.

The parole board will deliver a recommendation to the governor by August 25 after deliberating privately. The focus remains on whether this evidence might overturn a verdict that has kept Noling behind bars for decades.