IN THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR THE STATE OF ALASKA FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT AT FAIRBANKS In the Matter of the Application for Post-Conviction Relief of MARVIN ROBERTS, Petitioner. In the Matter of the Application for Post-Conviction Relief of GEORGE FRESE, Petitioner. In the Matter of the Application for Post-Conviction Relief of KEVIN PEASE, Petitioner. In the Matter of the Application for Post-Conviction Relief of Case No. 4FA-13-02667 CI Case No. 4FA-13-02668 CI Case No. 4FA-13-02669 CI Case No. 4FA-03-00976 CI EUGENE VENT, Petitioner. I certify this document and its attachments do not contain the (1) name of a victim of a sexual offense listed in AS 12.61.140 or (2) residence or business address or telephone number of a victim of or witness to any offense unless it is an address identifying the place of a crime or an address or telephone number in a transcript of a court proceeding and disclosure of the information was ordered by the court proceeding and disclosure of the information was ordered by the court. NOTICE OF FILING UNSIGNED SETTLEMENT DOCUMENTS So that the record is complete for this Court s recent orders, the Parties to the above-captioned actions submit herewith unsigned copies of the following settlement documents between the State and each individual Petitioner: Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of Claims George Frese; Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of Claims Marvin Roberts; Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of Claims Kevin Pease; Notice of Filing Unsigned Settlement Documents Page 1 of 6 In the Matter of the Applications for Post- Conviction Relief of Roberts, Frese, Pease and Vent 4FA-13-02667 CI 4FA-13-02668 CI 4FA-13-02669 CI 4FA-03-00976 CI
Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of Claims Eugene Vent; Stipulation for Voluntary Dismissal for Post-Conviction Relief Petitions; Stipulation for Post-Conviction Relief; [Proposed] Order Vacating Judgment of Conviction, Commitment and Probation, and Restitution for 4FA-97-03161CR (Eugene Vent); [Proposed] Order Vacating Judgment of Conviction, Commitment and Probation, and Restitution for 4FA-97-03162CR (George Frese); [Proposed] Order Vacating Judgment of Conviction, Commitment and Probation, and Restitution for 4FA-97-03163CR (Marvin Roberts); [Proposed] Order Vacating Judgment of Conviction, Commitment and Probation, and Restitution for 4FA-97-03164CR (Kevin Pease); [Proposed] Dismissal for 4FA-97-03161CR (Eugene Vent); \ [Proposed] Dismissal for 4FA-97-03162CR (George Frese); [Proposed] Dismissal for 4FA-97-03163CR (Marvin Roberts); and [Proposed] Dismissal for 4FA-97-03164CR (Kevin Pease); Notice of Filing Unsigned Settlement Documents Page 2 of 6 In the Matter of the Applications for Post- Conviction Relief of Roberts, Frese, Pease and Vent 4FA-13-02667 CI 4FA-13-02668 CI 4FA-13-02669 CI 4FA-03-00976 CI
11 DATED this day of December, 2015, at Anchorage, Alaska. ALASKA INNOCENCE PROJECT Attorneys for Marvin Roberts and Kevin Pease 11 By: William B. Oberly, #8106040 PO Box 201565 Anchorage, AK 99520 (907) 279-0454 DATED this day of December, 2015, at Anchorage, Alaska. DORSEY & WHITNEY LLP Attorneys for George Frese By: Robert C. Bundy, #7206021 Jahna M. Lindemuth, #9711068 Michael A. Grisham, #9411104 Katherine Demarest, #1011074 1031 W. 4 th Avenue, Ste. 600 (907) 276-4557 Notice of Filing Unsigned Settlement Documents Page 3 of 6 In the Matter of the Applications for Post- Conviction Relief of Roberts, Frese, Pease and Vent 4FA-13-02667 CI 4FA-13-02668 CI 4FA-13-02669 CI 4FA-03-00976 CI
11 DATED this day of December, 2015, at Anchorage, Alaska. OFFICE OF PUBLIC ADVOCACY Attorneys for Eugene Vent 11 By: Whitney G. Glover, #9711061 Richard K. Allen, #0411068 1016 W. 6 th Avenue, Ste. 100 (907) 269-6075 DATED this day of December, 2015, at Anchorage, Alaska. STATE OF ALASKA By: John B. Skidmore, #9811055 310 K Street, Suite 403 (907) 269-6379 Notice of Filing Unsigned Settlement Documents Page 4 of 6 In the Matter of the Applications for Post- Conviction Relief of Roberts, Frese, Pease and Vent 4FA-13-02667 CI 4FA-13-02668 CI 4FA-13-02669 CI 4FA-03-00976 CI
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE I hereby certify that on this day of December, 2015, a copy of the foregoing was served by email and mail on: Adrienne P. Bachman Office of Special Prosecutions 310 K Street, Suite 601 adrienne.bachman@alaska.gov Ali Moser Rahoi Assistant Attorney General 1031 W. 4 th Avenue, Suite 200 ali.rahoi@alaska.gov Leonard M. Linton, Jr. Assistant Attorney General 310 K Street, Suite 403 bob.linton@alaska.gov Whitney G. Glover Richard K. Allen Office of Public Advocacy 1016 W. 6 th Avenue, Suite 100 whitney.glover@alaska.gov richard.allen@alaska.gov William B. Oberly Alaska Innocence Project PO Box 201656 Anchorage, AK 99520 info@alaskainnocence.org 11 Notice of Filing Unsigned Settlement Documents Page 5 of 6 4833-6942-3404\1 In the Matter of the Applications for Post- Conviction Relief of Roberts, Frese, Pease and Vent 4FA-13-02667 CI 4FA-13-02668 CI 4FA-13-02669 CI 4FA-03-00976 CI
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND MUTUAL RELEASE OF ALL CLAIMS This Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims ( Agreement ), is entered into by and between George C. Frese ( Frese ), the State of Alaska ( State ), and the City of Fairbanks ( City ) (collectively referred to as the Parties ). WHEREAS, Frese is subject to a Judgment of Conviction and Order Of Commitment and Probation in Case No. 4FA-97-03162CR ( Original Case ), entered effective January 31, 2000, signed February 8, 2000, and certified February 11, 2000, ( Judgment of Conviction ); and WHEREAS, Frese is subject to a Restitution Order in Case No. 4FA-97-03162CR, dated March 14, 2000, ( Restitution Order ); and WHEREAS, Frese has filed a petition for post-conviction relief, Case No. 4FA-13-02668CI, seeking, pursuant to AS 12.72.010(4) and AS 12.72.020(b), to vacate the Judgment of Conviction and Restitution Order based on newly-discovered evidence ( PCR Petition ), within which Frese has alleged police and prosecutorial misconduct; and WHEREAS, the State contests Frese s right to any relief through his PCR Petition, and contests the factual and legal assertions made by Frese in connection with his PCR Petition, including without limitation Frese s allegations of police and prosecutorial misconduct; and WHEREAS, the Parties have now reached an agreement to resolve all disputes between them, and desire to formalize that agreement through this written instrument; NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the recitals, covenants, and conditions contained in the present Agreement and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows: I. TERMS A. The Parties will place on the record in the PCR Petition a stipulation that Frese Page 1 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
has withdrawn his PCR Petition, including all claims of actual innocence and all claims and allegations asserted by Frese in the PCR Petition of police and prosecutorial misconduct. The Parties understand and agree that this withdrawal is conditioned upon conclusion of the remaining terms of this Agreement, and that if the Court fails to order the relief required by this Agreement the withdrawal is null and void and Frese may continue to pursue relief through his PCR Petition. B. Contemporaneously with the filing of the above-referenced stipulation, the Parties will place on the record a stipulation with appropriate orders vacating the Judgment of Conviction and the Restitution Order from the Original case. Upon filing the stipulation, the State will file a dismissal of the indictment against Frese pursuant to Criminal Rule 43(a), at which time Frese will be immediately released from custody in 4FA-97-03162CR in accordance with Department of Corrections policies and procedures. C. Each Party will bear his or its own costs and attorneys fees incurred in relation to the PCR Petition pursuant to court orders existing at the time of this agreement, and will make no further claim against the other party for costs, attorneys fees, restitution, or other expenses. No money beyond that already ordered by the court shall be tendered or exchanged as a result of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims, and the parties expressly waive any expectation of, or right to recover, expenses or damages as a result of this compromise. II. RELEASE BY THE STATE Through execution of this Agreement, the State has agreed to dismiss the indictment against Frese without prejudice. The State further agrees not to seek a retrial at this time. The State, however, reserves the ability to file charges in the future and seek a retrial only if substantial new evidence of guilt is discovered, of which evidence the State was not previously Page 2 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
aware and could not reasonably have been expected to be aware. In the event that the State seeks retrial based on new evidence of guilt, Frese agrees that any subsequent retrial will not be barred by Criminal Rule 45, a claim of speedy trial, or double jeopardy. Frese hereby voluntarily and knowingly waives any arguments, allegations, claims arising from, or in any way related to, Criminal Rule 45, speedy trial, or double jeopardy in the event of retrial. III. RELEASE BY FRESE George C. Frese on behalf of himself and his representatives, beneficiaries, agents, attorneys, heirs, administrators, executors, predecessors or successors in interest, beneficiaries, or assigns, hereby releases and forever discharges the following persons and entities (sometimes collectively referred to as Releasees ): the State of Alaska and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, including but not limited to prosecutors and defense attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; the City of Fairbanks and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; the Fairbanks North Star Borough and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; whether liable or claimed to be liable to Frese, of and from any and all past, present, or future actions, causes of action, controversies, suits, claims, demands, liabilities, complaints or grievances of every kind and nature, whether mature or to mature in the future, and whether known or unknown, for or by reason of any matter, thing, claim, or allegation arising out of or in any way related to the arrest, investigation, prosecution, appeal, legal representation, or incarceration Page 3 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
associated with, connected to, or related in any way to any of the legal matters or actions referenced above, or any other matters arising prior to the date of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims. By virtue of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims, George C. Frese unequivocally releases and discharges the Releasees from any and all claims whether presently known, unknown, or discovered in the future, arising out of the investigation into the death of Jonathan Hartman and the subsequent prosecution and incarceration of George C. Frese, whether based in tort, contract, the United States Constitution, the Alaska Constitution, or any other theory of recovery or liability, including but not limited to claims for malicious prosecution, wrongful imprisonment, prosecutorial misconduct, legal malpractice, violation or deprivation of rights civil or constitutional, personal injury, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional or mental suffering, emotional distress or trauma, loss of consortium, loss of society, negligence, intentional acts or omissions, medical expenses, medical malpractice, past or future loss of wages, loss of earning capacity, or loss of prospective inheritance, administrative remedies, and any and all claims for compensatory damages, economic or non-economic losses, equitable relief, attorney s fees, or other costs or expenses of any kind whatsoever. Frese hereby covenants and agrees that he will not, either individually, jointly, or in concert with others, or by virtue of other judicial proceedings of any kind whatsoever, make or cause to be made, acquiesce in, or assist in the bringing of any further claims or actions of any kind against the Releasees for damages or losses arising out of the matters or claims referenced above. In view of the Alaska Supreme Court case of Witt v. Watkins, 579 P.2d 1065 (Alaska 1978), with which the parties are familiar, it is specifically set forth that it is the intention of the Page 4 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
parties to discharge absolutely the liability of the Releasees from any and all claims or potential claims arising out of the incidents described above, and George C. Frese acknowledges and assumes all risk, chance or hazard that his individual damages may be different, or may become progressive, greater, or more extensive than is now known, anticipated, or expected. The undersigned specifically releases any right he may now or hereafter have to reform, rescind, modify or set aside this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims through mutual or unilateral mistake or otherwise. The risk of such uncertainty and mistake is expressly assumed by Frese in consideration of the present settlement and dismissal and other consideration herein mentioned, and in consideration of this being a full and final settlement. George C. Frese represents and warrants that he has the sole right and exclusive authority to execute this Settlement Agreement and Release of All Claims, and that he has not sold, assigned, transferred, conveyed or otherwise disposed of any of the claims, demands, obligations or causes of action referred to in this Release. George C. Frese understands and agrees that should he, or anyone acting on his behalf, initiate further claims of any nature against the Releasees, nothing in this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims shall prevent or prohibit the Releasees from defending against such claims on the grounds of res judicata, collateral estoppel, waiver, or any other defense available at law or equity. Weber v. State, 166 P.3d 899, 901-902 (Alaska 2007). The Releasees do not waive or relinquish any such defenses, and the terms of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims may not be relied upon by the undersigned as indicia of the State s waiver of any available defense, affirmative defense, or counterclaim. No estoppel shall be inferred against the Releasees. Page 5 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
George C. Frese declares that the terms of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims have been carefully read and are fully understood and are voluntarily accepted or the purpose of making a full and final compromise of any and all claims, disputed or otherwise, for and on account of the matters described above. It is mutually understood by the Parties that the purpose of this Agreement is that there be no further litigation by Frese or others on his behalf related to this matter. IV. ADVICE OF COUNSEL This Agreement has been drafted by the Parties through the efforts of their respective legal counsel. The rule of construction that an agreement shall be construed against the drafting party is therefore inapplicable to this Agreement. The Parties warrant that the terms of this Agreement have been carefully reviewed and that each Party understands its contents and has been advised as to the legal effect of this Agreement by legal counsel obtained by that Party. V. NO ADMISSION OF LIABILITY The parties are reaching this Agreement for the purposes of settling a contested claim. The parties have not reached agreement as to Frese s actual guilt or innocence. Frese understands and acknowledges that the settlement reflected herein is the compromise of a disputed claim and is not to be construed as an admission of liability on the part of any of the Releasees, by whom all liability and fault is expressly denied. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed an admission of liability or responsibility on the part of either Party. Neither this Agreement nor any act taken to negotiate it or carry it out shall raise any presumption or inference of, or be offered or received in evidence as an admission or concession of, any fault, wrongdoing, or liability in any amount or kind. Page 6 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
VI. INTEGRATION Except as otherwise set forth herein, this Agreement embodies the full and complete understanding of the Parties, and on execution supersedes and renders null and void any and all prior understandings and oral agreements between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof. The Parties enter this Agreement voluntarily, and the Parties affirm that no promise or inducement has been offered or made except as set forth in this Agreement, and that this Agreement is executed without reliance upon any statement or representation by any other Party or its agents or attorneys concerning the nature and extent of any injuries, damages, or legal liability of any Party. No modification or amendment of this Agreement is valid unless made in writing and signed by all Parties or their legal counsel. VII. GOVERNING LAW AND FORUM SELECTION This Agreement is governed by and construed under the laws of the State of Alaska, without regard to conflicts of law principles. Any claims regarding this Agreement will be brought in the Alaska Superior Court, Fourth Judicial District at Fairbanks. VIII. COUNTERPARTS This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by the different Parties hereto on separate counterparts, including facsimile or email transmittals, each of which when so executed shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts, when taken together, shall constitute but one and the same agreement. IX. FURTHER ASSURANCES The Parties agree to perform such acts and to prepare, execute, and file any documents or stipulations reasonably required to perform the covenants, to satisfy the conditions herein contained, or to give full force and effect to this Agreement. Page 7 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
READ BEFORE SIGNING IT IS THE INTENT OF THE PARTIES, BY THIS DOCUMENT, TO FOREVER DISCHARGE ANY AND ALL CLAIMS OF GEORGE C. FRESE, PAST, PRESENT, OR FUTURE, OF ANY NATURE WHATSOEVER, AGAINST ANY AND ALL OF THE RELEASED PARTIES, AND TO RELEASE ANY AND ALL ECONOMIC OR NON- ECONOMIC LOSSES SUFFERED BY RELEASOR AS A RESULT OF, OR IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH, THE MATTERS DESCRIBED ABOVE. Dated: George C. Frese THIS IS TO CERTIFY that on the day of, 2015, at, Alaska, before me personally appeared George C. Frese, whom I know or verified to be the person he represents himself to be, and the same identical person who executed the above and foregoing document; and who acknowledged to me that he executed the foregoing instrument freely and voluntarily for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal. Notary Public in and for Alaska My Commission Expires: Page 8 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
ATTORNEY S REPRESENTATION As attorney for George C. Frese, I have carefully and fully explained the terms, provisions and effects of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims with my client, and he has represented to me that he believes he understands the terms thereof and the significance of said terms. Dated: By: Robert C. Bundy, #7206021 Jahna M. Lindemuth, #9711068 Michael A. Grisham, #9411104 Katherine Demarest, #1011074 Attorneys for George C. Frese Page 9 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
STATE OF ALASKA Dated: By: Craig W. Richards, #0205017 Its: Attorney General THIS IS TO CERTIFY that on the day of, 2015, at, Alaska, before me personally appeared Craig W. Richards, whom I know or verified to be the person he represents himself to be, and the same identical person who executed the above and foregoing document; and who acknowledged to me that he executed the foregoing instrument freely and voluntarily for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal. Notary Public in and for Alaska My Commission Expires: CITY OF FAIRBANKS Dated: By: Its: THIS IS TO CERTIFY that on the day of, 2015, at, Alaska, before me personally appeared, whom I know or verified to be the person he represents himself to be, and the same identical person who executed the above and foregoing document; and who acknowledged to me that he executed the foregoing instrument freely and voluntarily for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal. Notary Public in and for Alaska My Commission Expires: Page 10 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release G.C.F.
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND MUTUAL RELEASE OF ALL CLAIMS This Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims ( Agreement ), is entered into by and between Kevin W. Pease ( Pease ), the State of Alaska ( State ), and the City of Fairbanks ( City ) (collectively referred to as the Parties ). WHEREAS, Pease is subject to a Judgment of Conviction and Order Of Commitment and Probation in Case No. 4FA-97-03164CR ( Original Case ), entered effective February 4, 2000, signed February 14, 2000, and certified February 17, 2000, ( Judgment of Conviction ); and WHEREAS, Pease is subject to a Restitution Order in Case No. 4FA-97-03164CR, dated March 14, 2000, ( Restitution Order ); and WHEREAS, Pease has filed a petition for post-conviction relief, Case No. 4FA-13-02669CI, seeking, pursuant to AS 12.72.010(4) and AS 12.72.020(b), to vacate the Judgment of Conviction and Restitution Order based on newly-discovered evidence ( PCR Petition ), within which Pease has alleged police and prosecutorial misconduct; and WHEREAS, the State contests Pease s right to any relief through his PCR Petition, and contests the factual and legal assertions made by Pease in connection with his PCR Petition, including without limitation Pease s allegations of police and prosecutorial misconduct; and WHEREAS, the Parties have now reached an agreement to resolve all disputes between them, and desire to formalize that agreement through this written instrument; NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the recitals, covenants, and conditions contained in the present Agreement and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows: Page 1 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
I. TERMS A. The Parties will place on the record in the PCR Petition a stipulation that Pease has withdrawn his PCR Petition, including all claims of actual innocence and all claims and allegations asserted by Pease in the PCR Petition of police and prosecutorial misconduct. The Parties understand and agree that this withdrawal is conditioned upon conclusion of the remaining terms of this Agreement, and that if the Court fails to order the relief required by this Agreement the withdrawal is null and void and Pease may continue to pursue relief through his PCR Petition. B. Contemporaneously with the filing of the above-referenced stipulation, the Parties will place on the record a stipulation with appropriate orders vacating the Judgment of Conviction and the Restitution Order from the Original case. Upon filing the stipulation, the State will file a dismissal of the indictment against Pease pursuant to Criminal Rule 43(a), at which time Pease will be immediately released from custody in 4FA-97-03164CR in accordance with Department of Corrections policies and procedures. C. Each Party will bear his or its own costs and attorneys fees incurred in relation to the PCR Petition pursuant to court orders existing at the time of this agreement, and will make no further claim against the other party for costs, attorneys fees, restitution, or other expenses. No money beyond that already ordered by the court shall be tendered or exchanged as a result of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims, and the parties expressly waive any expectation of, or right to recover, expenses or damages as a result of this compromise. II. RELEASE BY THE STATE Through execution of this Agreement, the State has agreed to dismiss the indictment against Pease without prejudice. The State further agrees not to seek a retrial at this time. The Page 2 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
State, however, reserves the ability to file charges in the future and seek a retrial only if substantial new evidence of guilt is discovered, of which evidence the State was not previously aware and could not reasonably have been expected to be aware. In the event that the State seeks retrial based on new evidence of guilt, Pease agrees that any subsequent retrial will not be barred by Criminal Rule 45, a claim of speedy trial, or double jeopardy. Pease hereby voluntarily and knowingly waives any arguments, allegations, claims arising from, or in any way related to, Criminal Rule 45, speedy trial, or double jeopardy in the event of retrial. III. RELEASE BY PEASE Kevin W. Pease on behalf of himself and his representatives, beneficiaries, agents, attorneys, heirs, administrators, executors, predecessors or successors in interest, beneficiaries, or assigns, hereby releases and forever discharges the following persons and entities (sometimes collectively referred to as Releasees ): the State of Alaska and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, including but not limited to prosecutors and defense attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; the City of Fairbanks and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; the Fairbanks North Star Borough and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; whether liable or claimed to be liable to Pease, of and from any and all past, present, or future actions, causes of action, controversies, suits, claims, demands, liabilities, complaints or grievances of every kind and nature, whether mature or to mature in the future, and whether known or Page 3 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
unknown, for or by reason of any matter, thing, claim, or allegation arising out of or in any way related to the arrest, investigation, prosecution, appeal, legal representation, or incarceration associated with, connected to, or related in any way to any of the legal matters or actions referenced above, or any other matters arising prior to the date of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims. By virtue of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims, Kevin W. Pease unequivocally releases and discharges the Releasees from any and all claims whether presently known, unknown, or discovered in the future, arising out of the investigation into the death of Jonathan Hartman and the subsequent prosecution and incarceration of Kevin W. Pease, whether based in tort, contract, the United States Constitution, the Alaska Constitution, or any other theory of recovery or liability, including but not limited to claims for malicious prosecution, wrongful imprisonment, prosecutorial misconduct, legal malpractice, violation or deprivation of rights civil or constitutional, personal injury, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional or mental suffering, emotional distress or trauma, loss of consortium, loss of society, negligence, intentional acts or omissions, medical expenses, medical malpractice, past or future loss of wages, loss of earning capacity, or loss of prospective inheritance, administrative remedies, and any and all claims for compensatory damages, economic or non-economic losses, equitable relief, attorney s fees, or other costs or expenses of any kind whatsoever. Pease hereby covenants and agrees that he will not, either individually, jointly, or in concert with others, or by virtue of other judicial proceedings of any kind whatsoever, make or cause to be made, acquiesce in, or assist in the bringing of any further claims or actions of any kind against the Releasees for damages or losses arising out of the matters or claims referenced above. Page 4 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
In view of the Alaska Supreme Court case of Witt v. Watkins, 579 P.2d 1065 (Alaska 1978), with which the parties are familiar, it is specifically set forth that it is the intention of the parties to discharge absolutely the liability of the Releasees from any and all claims or potential claims arising out of the incidents described above, and Kevin W. Pease acknowledges and assumes all risk, chance or hazard that his individual damages may be different, or may become progressive, greater, or more extensive than is now known, anticipated, or expected. The undersigned specifically releases any right he may now or hereafter have to reform, rescind, modify or set aside this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims through mutual or unilateral mistake or otherwise. The risk of such uncertainty and mistake is expressly assumed by Pease in consideration of the present settlement and dismissal and other consideration herein mentioned, and in consideration of this being a full and final settlement. Kevin W. Pease represents and warrants that he has the sole right and exclusive authority to execute this Settlement Agreement and Release of All Claims, and that he has not sold, assigned, transferred, conveyed or otherwise disposed of any of the claims, demands, obligations or causes of action referred to in this Release. Kevin W. Pease understands and agrees that should he, or anyone acting on his behalf, initiate further claims of any nature against the Releasees, nothing in this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims shall prevent or prohibit the Releasees from defending against such claims on the grounds of res judicata, collateral estoppel, waiver, or any other defense available at law or equity. Weber v. State, 166 P.3d 899, 901-902 (Alaska 2007). The Releasees do not waive or relinquish any such defenses, and the terms of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims may not be relied upon by the undersigned as Page 5 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
indicia of the State s waiver of any available defense, affirmative defense, or counterclaim. No estoppel shall be inferred against the Releasees. Kevin W. Pease declares that the terms of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims have been carefully read and are fully understood and are voluntarily accepted or the purpose of making a full and final compromise of any and all claims, disputed or otherwise, for and on account of the matters described above. It is mutually understood by the Parties that the purpose of this Agreement is that there be no further litigation by Pease or others on his behalf related to this matter. IV. ADVICE OF COUNSEL This Agreement has been drafted by the Parties through the efforts of their respective legal counsel. The rule of construction that an agreement shall be construed against the drafting party is therefore inapplicable to this Agreement. The Parties warrant that the terms of this Agreement have been carefully reviewed and that each Party understands its contents and has been advised as to the legal effect of this Agreement by legal counsel obtained by that Party. V. NO ADMISSION OF LIABILITY The parties are reaching this Agreement for the purposes of settling a contested claim. The parties have not reached agreement as to Pease s actual guilt or innocence. Pease understands and acknowledges that the settlement reflected herein is the compromise of a disputed claim and is not to be construed as an admission of liability on the part of any of the Releasees, by whom all liability and fault is expressly denied. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed an admission of liability or responsibility on the part of either Party. Neither this Agreement nor any act taken to negotiate it or carry it out shall raise any presumption or Page 6 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
inference of, or be offered or received in evidence as an admission or concession of, any fault, wrongdoing, or liability in any amount or kind. VI. INTEGRATION Except as otherwise set forth herein, this Agreement embodies the full and complete understanding of the Parties, and on execution supersedes and renders null and void any and all prior understandings and oral agreements between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof. The Parties enter this Agreement voluntarily, and the Parties affirm that no promise or inducement has been offered or made except as set forth in this Agreement, and that this Agreement is executed without reliance upon any statement or representation by any other Party or its agents or attorneys concerning the nature and extent of any injuries, damages, or legal liability of any Party. No modification or amendment of this Agreement is valid unless made in writing and signed by all Parties or their legal counsel. VII. GOVERNING LAW AND FORUM SELECTION This Agreement is governed by and construed under the laws of the State of Alaska, without regard to conflicts of law principles. Any claims regarding this Agreement will be brought in the Alaska Superior Court, Fourth Judicial District at Fairbanks. VIII. COUNTERPARTS This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by the different Parties hereto on separate counterparts, including facsimile or email transmittals, each of which when so executed shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts, when taken together, shall constitute but one and the same agreement. IX. FURTHER ASSURANCES The Parties agree to perform such acts and to prepare, execute, and file any documents or Page 7 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
stipulations reasonably required to perform the covenants, to satisfy the conditions herein contained, or to give full force and effect to this Agreement. READ BEFORE SIGNING IT IS THE INTENT OF THE PARTIES, BY THIS DOCUMENT, TO FOREVER DISCHARGE ANY AND ALL CLAIMS OF KEVIN W. PEASE, PAST, PRESENT, OR FUTURE, OF ANY NATURE WHATSOEVER, AGAINST ANY AND ALL OF THE RELEASED PARTIES, AND TO RELEASE ANY AND ALL ECONOMIC OR NON- ECONOMIC LOSSES SUFFERED BY RELEASOR AS A RESULT OF, OR IN ANY WAY CONNECTED WITH, THE MATTERS DESCRIBED ABOVE. Dated: Kevin W. Pease THIS IS TO CERTIFY that on the day of, 2015, at, Alaska, before me personally appeared Kevin W. Pease, whom I know or verified to be the person he represents himself to be, and the same identical person who executed the above and foregoing document; and who acknowledged to me that he executed the foregoing instrument freely and voluntarily for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal. Notary Public in and for Alaska My Commission Expires: Page 8 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
ATTORNEY S REPRESENTATION As attorney for Kevin W. Pease, I have carefully and fully explained the terms, provisions and effects of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims with my client, and he has represented to me that he believes he understands the terms thereof and the significance of said terms. Dated: By: William B. Oberly, #8106040 Attorney for Kevin W. Pease Page 9 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
STATE OF ALASKA Dated: By: Craig W. Richards, #0205017 Its: Attorney General THIS IS TO CERTIFY that on the day of, 2015, at, Alaska, before me personally appeared Craig W. Richards, whom I know or verified to be the person he represents himself to be, and the same identical person who executed the above and foregoing document; and who acknowledged to me that he executed the foregoing instrument freely and voluntarily for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal. Notary Public in and for Alaska My Commission Expires: CITY OF FAIRBANKS Dated: By: Its: THIS IS TO CERTIFY that on the day of, 2015, at, Alaska, before me personally appeared, whom I know or verified to be the person he represents himself to be, and the same identical person who executed the above and foregoing document; and who acknowledged to me that he executed the foregoing instrument freely and voluntarily for the uses and purposes therein mentioned. IN WITNESS HEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal. Notary Public in and for Alaska My Commission Expires: Page 10 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release K.W.P.
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND MUTUAL RELEASE OF ALL CLAIMS This Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims ( Agreement ), is entered into by and between Marvin L. Roberts ( Roberts ), the State of Alaska ( State ), and the City of Fairbanks ( City ) (collectively referred to as the Parties ). WHEREAS, Roberts is subject to a Judgment of Conviction and Order Of Commitment and Probation in Case No. 4FA-97-03163CR ( Original Case ), entered effective February 4, 2000, signed February 14, 2000, and certified February 17, 2000, ( Judgment of Conviction ); and WHEREAS, Roberts is subject to a Restitution Order in Case No. 4FA-97-03163CR, dated March 14, 2000, ( Restitution Order ); and WHEREAS, Roberts has filed a petition for post-conviction relief, Case No. 4FA-13-02667CI, seeking, pursuant to AS 12.72.010(4) and AS 12.72.020(b), to vacate the Judgment of Conviction and Restitution Order based on newly-discovered evidence ( PCR Petition ), within which Roberts has alleged police and prosecutorial misconduct; and WHEREAS, the State contests Roberts s right to any relief through his PCR Petition, and contests the factual and legal assertions made by Roberts in connection with his PCR Petition, including without limitation Roberts s allegations of police and prosecutorial misconduct; and WHEREAS, the Parties have now reached an agreement to resolve all disputes between them, and desire to formalize that agreement through this written instrument; NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the recitals, covenants, and conditions contained in the present Agreement and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows: Page 1 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release M.L.R.
I. TERMS A. The Parties will place on the record in the PCR Petition a stipulation that Roberts has withdrawn his PCR Petition, including all claims of actual innocence and all claims and allegations asserted by Roberts in the PCR Petition of police and prosecutorial misconduct. The Parties understand and agree that this withdrawal is conditioned upon conclusion of the remaining terms of this Agreement, and that if the Court fails to order the relief required by this Agreement the withdrawal is null and void and Roberts may continue to pursue relief through his PCR Petition. B. Contemporaneously with the filing of the above-referenced stipulation, the Parties will place on the record a stipulation with appropriate orders vacating the Judgment of Conviction and the Restitution Order from the Original case. Upon filing the stipulation, the State will file a dismissal of the indictment against Roberts pursuant to Criminal Rule 43(a), at which time Roberts will be immediately released from custody in 4FA-97-03163CR in accordance with Department of Corrections policies and procedures. C. Each Party will bear his or its own costs and attorneys fees incurred in relation to the PCR Petition pursuant to court orders existing at the time of this agreement, and will make no further claim against the other party for costs, attorneys fees, restitution, or other expenses. No money beyond that already ordered by the court shall be tendered or exchanged as a result of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims, and the parties expressly waive any expectation of, or right to recover, expenses or damages as a result of this compromise. II. RELEASE BY THE STATE Through execution of this Agreement, the State has agreed to dismiss the indictment against Roberts without prejudice. The State further agrees not to seek a retrial at this time. The Page 2 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release M.L.R.
State, however, reserves the ability to file charges in the future and seek a retrial only if substantial new evidence of guilt is discovered, of which evidence the State was not previously aware and could not reasonably have been expected to be aware. In the event that the State seeks retrial based on new evidence of guilt, Roberts agrees that any subsequent retrial will not be barred by Criminal Rule 45, a claim of speedy trial, or double jeopardy. Roberts hereby voluntarily and knowingly waives any arguments, allegations, claims arising from, or in any way related to, Criminal Rule 45, speedy trial, or double jeopardy in the event of retrial. III. RELEASE BY ROBERTS Marvin L. Roberts on behalf of himself and his representatives, beneficiaries, agents, attorneys, heirs, administrators, executors, predecessors or successors in interest, beneficiaries, or assigns, hereby releases and forever discharges the following persons and entities (sometimes collectively referred to as Releasees ): the State of Alaska and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, including but not limited to prosecutors and defense attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; the City of Fairbanks and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; the Fairbanks North Star Borough and its departments, divisions, agencies, agents, representatives, directors, past and current employees, attorneys, contractors, retained or non-retained experts, witnesses, predecessors or successors in interest, and assigns; whether liable or claimed to be liable to Roberts, of and from any and all past, present, or future actions, causes of action, controversies, suits, claims, demands, liabilities, complaints or grievances of every kind and nature, whether mature or to mature in the future, and whether known or Page 3 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release M.L.R.
unknown, for or by reason of any matter, thing, claim, or allegation arising out of or in any way related to the arrest, investigation, prosecution, appeal, legal representation, or incarceration associated with, connected to, or related in any way to any of the legal matters or actions referenced above, or any other matters arising prior to the date of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims. By virtue of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims, Marvin L. Roberts unequivocally releases and discharges the Releasees from any and all claims whether presently known, unknown, or discovered in the future, arising out of the investigation into the death of Jonathan Hartman and the subsequent prosecution and incarceration of Marvin L. Roberts, whether based in tort, contract, the United States Constitution, the Alaska Constitution, or any other theory of recovery or liability, including but not limited to claims for malicious prosecution, wrongful imprisonment, prosecutorial misconduct, legal malpractice, violation or deprivation of rights civil or constitutional, personal injury, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional or mental suffering, emotional distress or trauma, loss of consortium, loss of society, negligence, intentional acts or omissions, medical expenses, medical malpractice, past or future loss of wages, loss of earning capacity, or loss of prospective inheritance, administrative remedies, and any and all claims for compensatory damages, economic or non-economic losses, equitable relief, attorney s fees, or other costs or expenses of any kind whatsoever. Roberts hereby covenants and agrees that he will not, either individually, jointly, or in concert with others, or by virtue of other judicial proceedings of any kind whatsoever, make or cause to be made, acquiesce in, or assist in the bringing of any further claims or actions of any kind against the Releasees for damages or losses arising out of the matters or claims referenced above. Page 4 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release M.L.R.
In view of the Alaska Supreme Court case of Witt v. Watkins, 579 P.2d 1065 (Alaska 1978), with which the parties are familiar, it is specifically set forth that it is the intention of the parties to discharge absolutely the liability of the Releasees from any and all claims or potential claims arising out of the incidents described above, and Marvin L. Roberts acknowledges and assumes all risk, chance or hazard that his individual damages may be different, or may become progressive, greater, or more extensive than is now known, anticipated, or expected. The undersigned specifically releases any right he may now or hereafter have to reform, rescind, modify or set aside this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims through mutual or unilateral mistake or otherwise. The risk of such uncertainty and mistake is expressly assumed by Roberts in consideration of the present settlement and dismissal and other consideration herein mentioned, and in consideration of this being a full and final settlement. Marvin L. Roberts represents and warrants that he has the sole right and exclusive authority to execute this Settlement Agreement and Release of All Claims, and that he has not sold, assigned, transferred, conveyed or otherwise disposed of any of the claims, demands, obligations or causes of action referred to in this Release. Marvin L. Roberts understands and agrees that should he, or anyone acting on his behalf, initiate further claims of any nature against the Releasees, nothing in this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims shall prevent or prohibit the Releasees from defending against such claims on the grounds of res judicata, collateral estoppel, waiver, or any other defense available at law or equity. Weber v. State, 166 P.3d 899, 901-902 (Alaska 2007). The Releasees do not waive or relinquish any such defenses, and the terms of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims may not be relied upon by the undersigned as Page 5 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release M.L.R.
indicia of the State s waiver of any available defense, affirmative defense, or counterclaim. No estoppel shall be inferred against the Releasees. Marvin L. Roberts declares that the terms of this Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of All Claims have been carefully read and are fully understood and are voluntarily accepted or the purpose of making a full and final compromise of any and all claims, disputed or otherwise, for and on account of the matters described above. It is mutually understood by the Parties that the purpose of this Agreement is that there be no further litigation by Roberts or others on his behalf related to this matter. IV. ADVICE OF COUNSEL This Agreement has been drafted by the Parties through the efforts of their respective legal counsel. The rule of construction that an agreement shall be construed against the drafting party is therefore inapplicable to this Agreement. The Parties warrant that the terms of this Agreement have been carefully reviewed and that each Party understands its contents and has been advised as to the legal effect of this Agreement by legal counsel obtained by that Party. V. NO ADMISSION OF LIABILITY The parties are reaching this Agreement for the purposes of settling a contested claim. The parties have not reached agreement as to Roberts s actual guilt or innocence. Roberts understands and acknowledges that the settlement reflected herein is the compromise of a disputed claim and is not to be construed as an admission of liability on the part of any of the Releasees, by whom all liability and fault is expressly denied. Nothing in this Agreement shall be deemed an admission of liability or responsibility on the part of either Party. Neither this Agreement nor any act taken to negotiate it or carry it out shall raise any presumption or Page 6 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release M.L.R.
inference of, or be offered or received in evidence as an admission or concession of, any fault, wrongdoing, or liability in any amount or kind. VI. INTEGRATION Except as otherwise set forth herein, this Agreement embodies the full and complete understanding of the Parties, and on execution supersedes and renders null and void any and all prior understandings and oral agreements between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof. The Parties enter this Agreement voluntarily, and the Parties affirm that no promise or inducement has been offered or made except as set forth in this Agreement, and that this Agreement is executed without reliance upon any statement or representation by any other Party or its agents or attorneys concerning the nature and extent of any injuries, damages, or legal liability of any Party. No modification or amendment of this Agreement is valid unless made in writing and signed by all Parties or their legal counsel. VII. GOVERNING LAW AND FORUM SELECTION This Agreement is governed by and construed under the laws of the State of Alaska, without regard to conflicts of law principles. Any claims regarding this Agreement will be brought in the Alaska Superior Court, Fourth Judicial District at Fairbanks. VIII. COUNTERPARTS This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and by the different Parties hereto on separate counterparts, including facsimile or email transmittals, each of which when so executed shall be deemed an original, but all such counterparts, when taken together, shall constitute but one and the same agreement. IX. FURTHER ASSURANCES The Parties agree to perform such acts and to prepare, execute, and file any documents or Page 7 of 10 Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release M.L.R.