Wrongful Conviction Overturned, Long Island's Marty Tankleff Ponders Congressional Bid
NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- After serving half of his young life behind bars, Long Island's Marty Tankleff is seriously considering running for congress.
Tankleff declared his interest in running on Instagram and his Twitter account. He said the national reaction has been overwhelming.
As CBS2's Jennifer McLogan reported, the former Belle Terre resident was sentenced to 50 years to life as a teenager.
He was found guilty in the sensational double murder bludgeoning of his wealthy parents Arlene and Seymour Tankleff.
The conviction was overturned after nearly 18 years. Tankleff was freed in 2008 after an appeals court ruled that key evidence was overlooked.
"When I got out it was almost half my life. If I would have taken all the anger and bitterness that I had and focused on that I wouldn't have been able to thrive in life," he said.
During his daily 'freedom walk,' Tankleff reflects on giving back. Since his release he has worked his way through college and law school, married his wife Laurie, and now lectures on crime and education. He said prison gave him thick skin.
Tankleff said he has come across those who doubted his innocence, something he treats as an opportunity to begin a frank discussion about justice.
"It is an opportunity for me to make a difference in the world. I've tried to do that since I've been out. I've tried to help people. What better way to make an impact than running for U.S. Congress?" he said.
Tankleff acknowledged that Peter King would be a formidable opponent, but is still eager to throw his hat in the ring.
Congressman King said that he welcomes any challenger.