State v. Griffin

Indictment for kidnapping Maria Coursey, a free negro woman.

Adjudged that the presumption of law is in favor of liberty, and no presumption to the contrary arises from color. A negro called as a witness is prima facie free. (Layton, J. dissenting.)

Adjudged, that the allegation of freedom, as contained in an indictment for kidnapping, is a substantive allegation and must be proved.

Verdict — not guilty.