Wrongfully convicted Nevest Coleman is now back to his job as groundskeeper with White Sox after 23 years in prison.
If you’re looking for a comeback story that beats any sports miracle, meet, Nevest Coleman, the man who went from prison time to primetime grass-cutting at Guaranteed Rate Field. After spending 23 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit, Coleman is back doing what he loves most: keeping the Chicago White Sox field looking perfect.
And that’s not all, the Cock County Board has approved a compensation of $5 million for him.
“I was proud to come back here,” Coleman told CBS News in phone interview. “I love the atmosphere.”
Coleman’s day began with power-washing the entrance to Guaranteed Rate Field where the team’s 2005 World Series commemoration plaza and sculpture are located, CBS Chicago reports.
According to Nevest, what kept him going was his family.
“I know I didn’t do it,” he said. “My family was always behind me. My goal was to see everybody.”
Finally, he has been released after DNA evidence revealed he is innocent of the 1994 rape and murder case.
“It took a lot of weight off my shoulders,” Coleman said. “Just to look around and be on my front porch. Take a shower, sit in a tub. I take it one day at a time. Now, I just have to enjoy life.”
He hadn’t been with his son and daughter since they were 3 months old and 2 years old, respectively. He now has grandchildren and makes a point to keep in touch with the entire family.
“It’s real now,” he said. “I call them every day. I call my grand-babies every day. It’s like we started all over again.”
After spending 23 of his youthful years in prison, his wish for the White Sox is for them to win World Series title.
“I hope we win a World Series because I’m out now,” he said.
The White Sox say they’re grateful that “justice has been carried for Nevest.”
Fast-forward to freedom. When his conviction is overturned, the White Sox didn’t just welcome him back, they opened their arms like he never left. They gave him his job back, his dignity back, and also $5 million in compensation.
