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A key investigator in the case is dead, but other law enforcement officers "have found Lorden to be completely truthful ... until recently," Hudson said. He added that Lorden passed a polygraph test about her testimony.

At times, Jones' attorneys appeared shocked at Hudson's version of the evidence against Jones.

Buddy Conner of Greenville, one of Jones' attorneys, spoke immediately after Hudson in the same courtroom where Jones was convicted.

He rebutted Hudson's presentation but praised him for having "courage" in dismissing the charges.

Questions then surfaced about whether the case of one of Jones' co-defendants was adversely affected by Lorden's testimony. Larry Lamb also was convicted of first-degree murder in Grady's death and is serving a life sentence.

Lorden's testimony weighed heavily in the case against Lamb.

According to court documents, Lamb, a former drug dealer, said in court documents he didn't learn of Grady's death until the following day, and he has maintained his innocence.

Meals waiting

Jones' family members didn't appear concerned about Hudson's skepticism. They were just happy he was a free man.

Mattie Branch, Jones' sister, said she was going to help cook a large meal for him. She said the meal would probably include fried chicken and ribs, some of Jones' favorite foods.

Jones' attorneys plan to hold a news conference Monday to rebut Hudson's presentation.

"Bo Jones is innocent," said Cassy Stubbs, one of Jones' attorneys. "We didn't hear the story of his innocence [today]."

Jones climbed into a van and waved to onlookers before leaving the jail. He was on his way to lunch at a local restaurant where he ate barbecue, fried chicken, cole slaw and pecan pie.

That night, he stayed with his biggest supporters -- his family.

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