African-American Kevin Strickland, 62, was freed last week from prison in Missouri, one of a number of US states which does not compensate people who have been wrongfully incarcerated.

Tricia Rojo Bushnell, Mr Strickland’s attorney, turned to GoFundMe to raise money for Mr Strickland to cover his living expenses, including medical bills.

Ms Bushnell said: “The state of Missouri has robbed him of his youth, his health, and much of his life’s potential. He has largely lost the use of his legs and now uses a wheelchair. All for a crime he did not commit.”

As of time of writing, the fundraiser has collected $1,586,540 (around €1,405,000) and is now aiming for a new target of $1,750,000.