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Texas Judge Who Prosecuted Innocent Man Resigns

A Texas judge facing criminal charges over prosecuting a man who spent 25 years in prison for a murder he didn't commit is stepping down.

State District Judge Ken Anderson on Tuesday submitted his resignation to Gov. Rick Perry. Anderson wrote that his resignation is effective immediately but did not give a reason.

Anderson is a former district attorney who prosecuted Michael Morton in 1987 for the murder of his wife. Morton was exonerated in 2011 based on DNA evidence.

In April, a special court of inquiry determined that Anderson intentionally concealed evidence favorable to Morton's defense. He is now facing criminal contempt and tampering with evidence charges.

A trial date for Anderson has not been set. If convicted, Anderson could face 10 years in prison.

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