1. Harry Connick Sr.
2. longtime New Orleans District Attorney.
Harry Connick Sr., New Orleans District Attorney, Dies at 97
From Associated Press
New Orleans, January 2024 – Harry Connick Sr., the former district attorney of New Orleans who served for three decades, has passed away at the age of 97. His death occurred on Thursday at his home in New Orleans, surrounded by his wife, Londa, and his children, Suzanna and musician and actor Harry Connick Jr. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
A Legacy of Political Success
Harry Connick Sr. made history when he defeated incumbent prosecutor Jim Garrison in the 1973 election. He went on to win reelection four times, successfully garnering support from a diverse range of voters as the city’s political landscape shifted.
A Controversial Legacy
While Connick had an illustrious career, his legacy was marred by allegations that his office withheld evidence that could have benefited defendants. This issue gained prominence 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 $14 million award for Thompson, stating that the district attorney’s office should not be held accountable for failing to train prosecutors on their obligation to share exculpatory evidence.
In 2014, the controversy resurfaced when Reginald Adams had his murder conviction reversed after 34 years in prison. Evidence presented by the Innocence Project New Orleans revealed that critical information had been withheld by detectives and prosecutors during Adams’ trial. Adams later received $1.25 million in a court settlement.
Throughout these cases, Connick remained silent and declined to comment. However, in 2012, he defended his legacy in an interview, acknowledging that while he may not have been perfect, he believed he had done nothing to warrant confession.
A Life of Service and Achievement
Harry Connick Sr., a World War II Navy veteran, was born on March 27, 1926, in Mobile, Alabama. His family relocated to New Orleans when he was just two years old. In addition to his political career, Connick nurtured his son, Harry Connick Jr., into becoming a renowned jazz piano prodigy.
Connick Sr.’s journey began in 1973 when he challenged the infamous Jim Garrison, who had gained international attention for his prosecution in the John F. Kennedy assassination case. Connick ran as a reformer and won the election by a narrow margin.
During his tenure, Connick led efforts to crack down on prostitution and shut down adult bookshops in the French Quarter, utilizing century-old laws. However, his stance on the death penalty in first-degree murder cases drew criticism from anti-capital punishment groups.
In a surprising turn of events, Connick found himself on the other side of the law when he was indicted on charges of racketeering and aiding a sports-betting operation in 1990. Despite the charges, he was acquitted and went on to win his fourth election in the same year.
Farewell to a Political Icon
New Orleans’ current district attorney, Jason Williams, expressed his condolences to Connick’s family on their loss. Harry Connick Sr. leaves behind a complex legacy, marked by both political success and controversy. His contributions to the city of New Orleans and his dedication to public service will be remembered by many.
Rest in peace, Harry Connick Sr.
.
– Harry Connick Sr. New Orleans District Attorney
– Longtime New Orleans District Attorney, singer’s dad.
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