Hear from our interns

Each year, Bridge of Hope Innocence Initiative (BOHII) take on a number of interns. Interns play an integral role in the investigation of cases at BOHII. They assess incoming applications, undertake case management, case investigation, data entry and analysis, and formulate new ideas and avenues for investigation. 

In light of wrongful conviction day this Friday the 2nd of October, we asked a few of our interns a couple of questions about what it is like interning at BOHII. 

How did you get involved in the Innocence Initiative? 

I remember watching and learning about Khalid Baker’s story on 60 minutes in 2019. I felt extremely inspired and wondered if I would ever have the opportunity to make contributions like this. As soon as I saw that BOHII was taking applications for internships, I jumped at the opportunity! - Vanessa 

I first heard about the initiative when I went to RMIT’s Open Day and was immediately intrigued by the organisation as I have always had a passion for social justice. Their work was so meaningful and important that I had to apply for an internship when the opportunity arose during my final year.  - Nivi 

I heard about Bridge of Hope Innocence Initiative through Greg (the BOHII manager) during a study tour to Malaysia and it sparked an interest as I love the idea of helping people especially those who are unable to help themselves. A friend of mine also did her placement with BOHII, loved it and recommended that I should definitely consider doing it as well. I then applied, undertook an interview and then found out my application was successful.  - Prashna 

I became involved with the Bridge of Hope Innocence Initiative through my Bachelor of Criminal Justice and have completed a 50 day placement with BOHII. I first heard of BOHII during an open day presentation and thought it sounded absolutely amazing. - Taylah 

What do you do? 

I help to reinvestigate cases which involves review case materials to determine if we can find new evidence. I have also had the opportunity to assess applications to determine if they meet the BOHII ambit. - Taylah 

Working across various teams, my role has been to review and collate evidence such as witness statements and police interviews that have been made available to the organisation. I then compile and contribute to various chronologies and registers so that this information is comprehensive and easily accessible for those leading the investigations. This includes analysing consistencies and inconsistencies that have been identified between pieces of evidence and identifying new leads that could be followed up. I have also transcribed phone calls that the Initiative has had with its applicants, and written questions for these interviews. The aim of all of this is to assist in the possible exoneration of those who have been wrongfully convicted. - Aidan 

As an intern I assist in the investigations of wrongful conviction claims, through critical thinking and a range of research-based tasks alongside other interns, academics, volunteers, students and legal professionals. - Darcy 

My role at BoHII has been to review new applications to see if they meet our ambit. I spend the bulk of my time assisting in the re-investigating of cases accepted by the Initiative. - Rebecca 

What are the most enjoyable aspects of reviewing cases? 

Working on high profile cases have been the highlight of my internship experience. It is extremely rewarding, and sometimes overwhelming to have the opportunity to see all of the evidence that contributed to the conviction of a high-profile applicant.  - Vanessa 

I have loved learning new skills and getting to contribute to the amazing work BOHII does for their applicants. I feel fortunate enough to have been able to gain a real-life experience into the workings of the criminal justice system before even graduating. Working at BOHII has allowed me to start developing and applying my theory knowledge into practical skills that I will use through my career in Criminal Justice.  - Darcy 

The most enjoyable aspect of reviewing cases is knowing that my contribution, however big or small, is supporting someone’s case in helping that individual be exonerated (hopefully!).   - Prashna 

The most enjoyable aspect of reviewing the cases, is knowing that you are trying to assist individuals and possibly rectifying the miscarriage of justice that they have been a victim of. Working with a great group that is also supportive makes the program enjoyable, as it allows you to have fun and take a bit of a load off, after having reviewed cases for the day.  - Sophia 

What are the most difficult aspects of reviewing cases? 

Much of the material relating to the cases can be quite confronting. When I started this placement, I remember feeling quite uneasy knowing that these are real cases with real victims. However, this is something I was able to adapt to relatively quickly through practicing resilience. Another difficult aspect is that some of the work can be quite tedious as it is just following a procedure, however the potential outcomes of this work makes it all worth it.  - Aidan 

I would say that the confronting details of some cases can sometimes get to you, but it’s crucial to remember that resilience is not something that develops overnight. I’m fortunate enough to work within a team that’s supportive of one another so it’s also helpful knowing they’re available to chat when needed.  - Caitlyn 

The most difficult aspect of reviewing cases is knowing that this process of gaining evidence to prove their innocence is a lengthy one, and therefore, could mean that you do not get to see the result or any result at the end of it. Although we work hard and would like to resolve the case as soon as possible for our applicant, many avenues need to be investigated to gain as much ‘new and fresh evidence’ and ‘reasonable doubt’ as possible, to be upheld within an appeal. - Sophia 

Looking through phone records can be the trickiest part of reviewing a case. The attention to detail and concentration levels needed to ensure you are reading and recording them down correctly can be quite difficult. - Siena. 

Has undertaking this internship changed your view of the criminal justice system? 

Undertaking this internship has not necessarily changed my view of the criminal justice system, but rather, has confirmed my opinion in that it contains major flaws, that unfortunately affects too many lives. It has been really interesting to see how theory doesn’t always align with practice and I hope that if I pursue this pathway, I get the opportunity to assist in changes that must be made.  - Caitlyn 

This internship has provided me with the practical knowledge of the criminal justice system that I have not gained from the theoretical work completed in my degree. It has certainly reinforced my view that the system is not flawless and needs to be reformed to correct the many miscarriages of justice that can occur. Also, it can take ages to get things done… - Nivi 

Being a part of the Innocence Initiative has definitely changed my view of the criminal justice system. I have certainly lost faith in the system’s ability to recognise its wrongdoings and rectify them and have come to the realisation that we cannot rely on the justice system to treat us fairly.  - Rebecca 

This internship as opened my eyes to how frequently miscarriages of justice occur in the criminal justice system. It has highlighted that reforms are needed to ensure it’s is meeting its aim effectively. - Siena 

Written by Monique Moffa (September 29, 2020)