The Wrong Man: 17 Years Behind Bars tells the story of an innocent man, Andrew Malkinson, and his devastating experience of being failed by the criminal justice system, resulting in a 17-year prison sentence for a crime he did not commit.
On the morning of August 2, 2003, Andrew Malkinson’s life changed forever when the police knocked on his door. He was arrested for the violent attack and rape of a young woman. Despite Andrew’s insistence on his innocence, the police were convinced he matched the victim’s description. Andrew cooperated with a video lineup, believing that the truth would prevail. However, he was charged with attempted murder and rape when the victim identified him as her attacker.
Months later, a jury found him guilty of rape, and on March 30, 2004, he began serving his life sentence in the sex offenders wing of HMP Frankland.
This documentary provides an exclusive insight into Andrew’s life, featuring Andrew, his family, and his legal team. It chronicles his unwavering fight for justice and his journey to prove his innocence. Filmed over three years, the documentary begins on the day Andrew walks out of prison and follows him and his legal team as they challenge the criminal justice system and work to overturn his conviction.
The Wrong Man: 17 Years Behind Bars airs on BBC Two on Thursday, 6 June 2024, at 9:00 pm.