After three decades behind bars for a murder he vehemently denied, Gordon Cordeiro tasted freedom on Friday following a judge's order for his release based on compelling new DNA evidence. His first steps as a free man included a poignant visit to his mother's grave and a celebratory steak dinner.

Cordeiro's conviction in the 1994 shooting death of Timothy Blaisdell on Maui was overturned due to the emergence of DNA evidence that cast serious doubt on his guilt. Tragically, his mother, Paulette, passed away from ALS just a month before his arrest, never knowing her son would endure decades of wrongful imprisonment.

Hours after his release, Cordeiro stood at his mother's graveside, expressing gratitude for her unwavering support and belief in his innocence. He recalled telling her, "Thanks for looking over me. Keeping me safe." He often reflected on his mother during his incarceration, remembering the day of the murder when he was with her, building shelves for their family, far from the scene of the crime.

Following his emotional graveside visit, Cordeiro relished a long-awaited steak dinner before gathering with family at his father's home. The next day, he continued his pilgrimage, visiting the graves of other relatives and even making a mundane yet meaningful trip to Costco. He remarked on the normalcy of it all, a stark contrast to the confines of prison life.

Returning to Maui after 30 years, Cordeiro observed a transformed island, noting the devastation wrought by the 2023 Lahaina wildfire. He also commented on the pervasive presence of technology, a stark change from the pre-smartphone era he last experienced. "Everybody is looking at their phones," he observed, acknowledging his own unfamiliarity with the constant beeping and influx of messages on his new smartphone, a device unimaginable during his initial imprisonment.

Judge Kirstin Hamman's decision to vacate Cordeiro's sentence was based on the new DNA evidence, which she deemed substantial enough to likely alter the outcome of a retrial. Maui County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Martin indicated his intention to appeal the judge's decision and seek bail for Cordeiro. Cordeiro's initial trial resulted in a hung jury, with only one juror voting to convict. He was subsequently found guilty of murder, robbery, and attempted murder, receiving a life sentence without parole.

The Hawaii Innocence Project highlighted the significance of the new DNA testing, which excluded Cordeiro as the source of DNA found on Blaisdell's body and other crime scene evidence. Furthermore, the testing revealed the DNA profile of an unidentified individual on the inside pockets of Blaisdell’s jeans. Expressing gratitude for the advancements in DNA technology, Cordeiro acknowledged its crucial role in securing his freedom. He now looks forward to rebuilding his life, focusing on repairing cars, assisting his father, and potentially contributing to his community.