In May 2015, renewed attention was drawn to the case of Marlon Kiser, a Tennessee death row inmate convicted of murdering Hamilton County Deputy Donald Bond in 2003. Despite receiving a death sentence, Kiser has continued to maintain his innocence, claiming he was framed by his former roommate, James Michael Chattin.
Kiser’s primary argument centers on accusations against Chattin, whom he alleges had a motive for the murder. According to Kiser, Chattin suspected Deputy Bond of having an affair with his wife, Tina, and had threatened to kill the deputy. Kiser further claimed that Chattin framed him to deflect attention from himself after the murder.
The narrative Kiser shared on his website, FreeMarlonKiser.com, builds on this theory. He alleged that he had asked Chattin to move out after discovering his drug use, which he believes contributed to Chattin’s motivation for framing him. Kiser also stated that Chattin had previously asked him to kill Deputy Bond, reinforcing what he views as Chattin’s intent and capacity for the crime.
In an effort to overturn his conviction, Kiser started a petition for his removal from death row, which has gathered over 470 signatures toward a 1,000-signature goal. Supporters of Kiser argue that local law enforcement corruption and his knowledge of Chattin’s criminal behavior made him a convenient scapegoat.
However, forensic evidence has undermined Kiser’s claims. His legal team requested further examinations of items linked to the crime, including a flashlight and a vehicle. These tests revealed Kiser’s palm prints and fingerprints on both items, strengthening the case against him. Additionally, fibers found on Deputy Bond’s uniform were matched to Kiser, offering more physical evidence contradicting his defense.
Despite his ongoing declarations of innocence, the available evidence continues to support the original conviction. While Kiser and his supporters point to alternative suspects and alleged misconduct, the forensic findings and physical links to the crime scene remain strong obstacles in his efforts to obtain post-conviction relief.
