Teen Released After Sexual Assault Conviction Overturned, Mistrial Declared

KENOSHA, Wis. (WLIP) — A 16-year-old convicted of second-degree sexual assault has been released after a judge declared a mistrial, citing a potential “miscarriage of justice” following concerns raised by multiple jurors.

Martel Lee was tried as an adult and spent more than six months in jail before being released Tuesday on a $10,000 signature bond.

The Kenosha County judge’s decision came after three jurors sent letters expressing doubts about the August conviction.

One juror reported feeling pressured into the guilty verdict and alleged that some jurors leaning toward acquittal were coerced into changing their vote.

Court documents indicate that during deliberations, at least one juror said they would make the decision for the group to expedite the process.

The case was further complicated by court records showing the alleged victim changed incident details multiple times and briefly recanted her statement.

Lee is expected to receive a new trial, with the case to be reviewed by prosecutors and a future court date to be determined.