"Please explain why the common man is a lesser creature when those in power are corrupted so easily?"<br><br>Sadly, Mac, I think you have answered your own question. When those in power are corrupt--we are all lesser creatures. It is Orwell's notion that "some are more equal than others" isn't it? I really don't believe that public officials are any more likely to be evil than anyone else, but, tragically, they aren't any less likely either. I think it seems more widespread because of the greater amount of evil they do because of the greater power they have. It really is a matter of perception. Look at the reputation of Police Officers--before 911 the perception was that they were all crooks because of what we saw in New Orleans, L.A., and too many other places. After 911 we have a much different (and I believe more accurate) opinion of the average cop on the street. The real life answer is probably somewhere in the middle.<br>Unfortunately your case is not as unusual as it should be. I have lectured about this problem at seminars. Usually it doesn't result from evil intent, but rather, ego involvement by the DA or ADA. (Although maybe evil was involved in your particular case). What happens is that on a police report a case looks solid and like one that should be prosecuted, but as the case progresses, the truth slowly emerges and it becomes evident that it should never have been charged in the first place. Then, instead of admitting the mistake, apologizing and moving on, the prosecutor's ego and fear of public embarassment or even a lawsuit causes him/her to forge ahead hoping that somehow it will " grow up." Of course it never does and tragedies like yours occur. Again, this isn't common, but it is too frequent and usually does not start out as an intentional thing. Of course that does not make it acceptable and I know none of this makes you feel any better about what happened to you--but may put a more human face on most prosecutors. <br><br>I am going to assume that your photos were accepted as evidence in your case. Were they marked as exhibits? If so, you should be entitled to withdraw them and have them returned to you if there are no appeals pending.<br><br>I have often wondered about the inherent unfairness of the truly innocent defendant who is put to the expense of proving it. There is no system in place to compensate them. It is a pretty hollow victory for someone to be aquitted and then owe 25,000.00 in fees and costs. The only saving grace is that the vast majority who are prosecuted are guilty (even the ones aquitted on technicalities). I can honestly say that in 14 years at this, I am pretty confident that I have never tried a truly innocent person. I have charged some, but dismissed before it ever got even close to trial (the above situation). Of course, if like you ,you are in the tiny percentage who was tried while being innocent, this is very little solace indeed. I hope you will not let it so embitter you that you give up on a system that, while flawed, is one we can be proud of and defend with honor. Take good care... Rob