Cabarrus Today

The City of Concord has reached a $22 million settlement with Ronnie Long, who was wrongfully convicted in 1976. The settlement comes after the city acknowledged and accepted responsibility for the errors in judgment and misconduct that led to Long's wrongful conviction and imprisonment.

In response to the settlement, the Concord City Council expressed deep remorse for the harm caused to Mr. Long and those around him. They stated, "We are deeply remorseful for the past wrongs that caused tremendous harm to Mr. Long, his family, friends, and our community." The council also recognized the significant loss suffered by Long, noting, "Mr. Long suffered the extraordinary loss of his freedom and a substantial portion of his life because of this conviction."

During the 44 years, 3 months, and 17 days that Long spent in prison for a crime he did not commit, the council acknowledged the injustice he faced, saying, "He wrongly served 44 years, 3 months and 17 days in prison for a crime he did not commit." They emphasized that while they cannot fully restore what was taken from Long and his family, the settlement signifies their commitment to righting the wrongs of the past and taking responsibility.

The council expressed hope that the agreement would initiate a healing process for Long and the community, fostering a path towards moving forward and preventing similar injustices from occurring in the future. They stated, "We are hopeful this can begin the healing process for Mr. Long and our community, and that together we can move forward while learning valuable lessons and ensuring nothing like this ever happens again."