An Italian appeals court overturned Amanda Knox's murder conviction today after a lengthy and high profile legal battle. The 24-year-old American served nearly four years in prison following the death of her British roommate in 2007. The court in Pergula, Italy ordered the 24-year-old American to be freed.
The court also acquitted Knox's ex-boyfriend, Italian Raffaele Sollecito, in connection with the death of 21-year-old Meredith Kercher.
Knox wept as the verdict was being read and nearly collapsed. It was also a very emotional scene outside of the courthouse, as crowds chanted, "Shame, shame!"
Many questions surfaced over the validity of DNA evidence in the appeals case. This ruling overturns the 2009 conviction.
The judge upheld slander charges against Knox. He doled out a sentence of three years, which she has technically served in jail already.
Under Italian law, prosecutors can appeal the acquittal to Italy's highest court. No word on whether they plan to do so now.
Earlier today, a tearful Knox pleaded with the jury she was innocent. "I'm not a promiscuous vamp. I'm not violent ... I have not killed, I have not raped, I was not there, I was not present."