Judge Not

Randall Zimmerman was branded a child molester. A jury finally set him free.

A A A Comments By Julie Jargon Thursday, May 15 2003

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In late April, Zimmerman received a letter with no return address that was simply signed "A juror." "I have thought about writing you for some time," it read. "It has been months since the trial, and I still find myself thinking of it often. I can't imagine how difficult it was for you and your family. I hope you are able to recover the life that you had before this trial. I don't claim to speak for God, but I believe He kept you free. I'm sure another jury could have found you not guilty within one hour. Perhaps another jury could have found you guilty. I hope you find the joy of Christ once again. God took care of you, and I hope you are grateful."

Zimmerman, now 39, is hoping to publish a book about his experience and is working on a Ph.D. in education at the University of Denver. He just accepted a job at a community college and has applied to almost every school district in the metro area; if he gets an offer, he'll consider taking it. He knows that if he does return to teaching kids -- which is what he feels he's best at -- he'll be vulnerable to further accusations. But it's a risk he's willing to take.

John Johnston

Former student Hillary Smith says Zimmerman was everyone's favorite teacher.

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"Why should I let one disturbed person and one legal system that wasn't thorough stop me from doing what I love?" he says. "You just have to have faith in people."