What percentage of people in jail are estimated to be innocent?

The estimation that approximately 10% of people in jail may be innocent draws on various studies and research that have analyzed wrongful convictions and the complexities of the criminal justice system. This figure reflects the understanding of wrongful imprisonment, which can occur due to factors such as inadequate legal representation, prosecutorial misconduct, and systemic biases.

The 10% estimate indicates that out of the total prison population, a significant number may have been wrongly convicted, highlighting the importance of procedural justice and the necessity for rigorous review processes in the legal system. This figure also underscores the ongoing discussions about reforming practices in law enforcement and adjudication to minimize the chances of wrongful convictions and ensure that those who are incarcerated have received fair trials.