– Harry Connick Sr.
– Longtime D.A.
– Father of Singer
– Dies at 97
– Harry Connick Sr. Dies at 97
– Longtime D.A. Dies at 97
– Father of Singer Dies at 97
– Harry Connick Sr. Longtime D.A.
– Harry Connick Sr. Father of Singer
– Longtime D.A. Father of Singer
– Harry Connick Sr. Longtime D.A. Dies at 97
– Harry Connick Sr. Father of Singer Dies at 97
– Longtime D.A. Father of Singer Dies at 97.

Harry Connick Sr., Former New Orleans District Attorney, Dies at 97

Background and Legacy

Harry Connick Sr., the former district attorney of New Orleans who served for three decades, passed away peacefully at the age of 97. He died at his home in New Orleans, surrounded by his loving family, including his wife Londa and his children Suzanna and the renowned musician and actor, Harry Connick Jr. While the cause of his death has not been provided, his passing marks the end of an era in the city’s legal history.

Connick made history in 1973 when he defeated the incumbent prosecutor, Jim Garrison, in a closely contested election. His victory marked a turning point as the city’s political power base began to shift towards African Americans. Connick went on to win reelection four times, successfully building biracial support throughout his tenure.

Controversy and Criticism

Despite his long and successful career, Connick’s legacy was marred by allegations that his office sometimes withheld evidence that could have helped defendants. This issue gained national attention in 2011 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of John Thompson, who was exonerated after spending 14 years on death row. The court overturned a multimillion-dollar award for Thompson, stating that the district attorney’s office should not be held responsible for the lack of specific training on evidence sharing.

Further controversy arose in 2014 when a murder conviction against Reginald Adams was reversed. Evidence presented by the Innocence Project New Orleans revealed that critical information had been withheld by detectives and prosecutors in the case. Adams later received a settlement of $1.25 million.

Connick consistently declined to comment on these cases but defended his overall record, stating that his reputation should not be judged solely on a few cases. He believed that his accomplishments and dedication to his office spoke for themselves.

A Lasting Impact

Despite the controversies surrounding his tenure, Connick’s contributions to the city of New Orleans cannot be overlooked. As the longest-serving district attorney in the city’s history, he devoted himself to public service and made significant strides in shaping the criminal justice system.

Jason Williams, the current district attorney of New Orleans, expressed his condolences to the Connick family and acknowledged the enormous impact Connick had on the community. Williams recognized the sacrifices made by Connick and his family in their commitment to public service.

A Life of Service and Music

Born on March 27, 1926, in Mobile, Alabama, Connick moved to New Orleans at a young age. He served in the Navy during World War II and later became a prominent figure in the city’s political landscape. Connick’s love for music was also well-known, and he played a crucial role in nurturing his son, Harry Connick Jr., into becoming a jazz piano prodigy.

Connick’s weekly gigs in French Quarter nightclubs allowed him to form close friendships with Black musicians and voters in a city where racial dynamics played a significant role in politics. This support was instrumental in his political survival, and he credited Mayor Marc Morial and other Black politicians for their role in his success.

Final Words

Harry Connick Sr. left an indelible mark on the city of New Orleans through his long and dedicated service as district attorney. While his legacy may be tarnished by controversy, his impact on the criminal justice system and his contributions to the music scene will be remembered. The funeral arrangements for Connick are currently pending.

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– Harry Connick Sr. death
– Longtime D.A. and father of singer Harry Connick Sr. dies at 97.