Debunked Arson Science Keeps Mother Imprisoned for Nearly 30 Years, Attorneys Say

Debunked Arson Science Keeps Mother Imprisoned for Nearly 30 Years, Attorneys Say

Attorneys with the New Jersey public defender’s office are seeking a new trial for Maria Montalvo, a former nurse who was convicted of burning her children to death more than two decades ago. Montalvo’s attorneys argue that advances in forensic science have undermined the expert testimony that prosecutors relied on to secure her conviction.  Prosecutors accused Montalvo of intentionally setting a fire that killed 16-month-old Zoraida and 28-mont…