Leo Schofield’s journey through the justice system is marked by pain, resilience, and unexpected forgiveness. Wrongfully imprisoned for the murder of his wife, Michelle, he served 36 years in prison before being released on parole in April 2024. Schofield has always maintained his innocence, having been convicted in 1989 based primarily on circumstantial evidence rather than physical proof. His life took a turn following a motorcycle accident with his daughter in January 2025, which led Pulitzer Prize-winning author Gilbert King, who had been investigating Schofield’s case for his podcast “Bone Valley,” to visit him. During this visit, King received a surprising call from Jeremy Scott, a convicted murderer who confessed in 2017 to Michelle’s killing.
Jeremy Scott’s confession came as a revelation, and he expressed deep remorse for the suffering he had caused Schofield and his family. In a poignant conversation, Schofield responded to Scott’s admission with profound empathy, saying, “I want you to know that I forgive you with all my heart.” This moment of forgiveness underscores Schofield’s remarkable character, shaped by years of turmoil and loss. He emphasized the importance of truth and bravery in facing the consequences of one’s actions. Their exchange revealed not just the burden of guilt that Scott carries but also Schofield’s own journey toward healing, aided by his faith.
During the years in prison, Schofield turned to spirituality, finding solace in his faith as he grappled with anger and confusion about the circumstances that led to his wrongful incarceration. Through prayer and community, he learned to let go of bitterness and instead focus on forgiveness. This transformation culminated in his outreach to Scott, where Schofield expressed hope that Scott could also find redemption in his life. King noted how Schofield became a mentor to fellow inmates, demonstrating profound spiritual growth amid adversity. His belief system not only supported him but also offered compassion to another lost soul in Scott.
The tragic timeline of Michelle’s disappearance and subsequent murder remains haunting. In February 1987, after a brief call to her husband, Michelle was brutally murdered, her body found three days later with 26 stab wounds. From the outset, Schofield was embroiled in an investigation that seemed more interested in pinning the crime on him than uncovering the true perpetrator. Despite a lack of concrete evidence linking him to the crime, various testimonies from neighbors and a weak defense led to his conviction. Years later, fingerprints found in Michelle’s car revealed their owner to be Jeremy Scott, casting doubt on the original investigation that had targeted Schofield.
After initially denying any involvement, Scott later confessed multiple times to the murder, yet his statements were often dismissed, leading him to struggle with guilt for years. His confessions did not gain traction until he reached out to Schofield’s legal representation. King’s interviews with Scott reveal a man burdened not only by regret for the crime but also by the harsh realities of prison life. Even as he acknowledged the gravity of his actions, he faced significant challenges in gaining credibility, often labeled as unreliable due to past behavior.
Amidst these complexities, Schofield’s life has continued beyond the prison walls. He found love again, marrying Crissie Carter, a social worker he met in prison, and has maintained hope for his exoneration. King remains optimistic about Schofield’s future, advocating for him as he navigates the remaining legal hurdles to overturn his wrongful conviction. Despite enduring the scars of injustice, Schofield persists in seeking acknowledgment of his innocence, supported by those who believe in his cause. His story, marked by resilience and forgiveness, serves as a powerful reminder of the human capacity for hope and redemption in the face of profound adversity.
