State v. Miller
State v. Miller
Opinion of the Court
The opinion of the court was delivered
Defendant appealed as a matter of right in forma pauperis on a constitutional question which we find unnecessary to decide, for an examination and evaluation of the entire record make it clearly and convincingly appear that the verdict of guilty was the result of mistake, partiality, prejudice or passion. We therefore conclude that the verdict must be set aside as against the weight of the evidence. See R. R. 1:5-1 (a).
This conclusion is brought sharply into focus by the testimony of the complaining witness. In particular, she admits that she had known the defendant since her early youth and had voluntarily visited him in his apartment on several occasions prior to the date when the criminal acts were allegedly committed. On that day, she testified that she, her sister, and defendant were drinking wine on the sidewalk in front of her sister’s house, located around the corner from defendant’s dwelling. When she left the group and started homeward,
Upon the entire record we find these facts to be inconsistent with the charge of rape. Accordingly, without passing on the other grounds urged by defendant, we reverse the verdict and remand for a new trial.
For reversal and remandment — Chief Justice Weiíttbaub,- and Justices Jacobs, Pboctok, Hall, Schettino and Haite-MAN-6.
For affirmance — None.
Reference
- Full Case Name
- THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY, PLAINTIFF-RESPONDENT v. MACK MILLER
- Cited By
- 2 cases
- Status
- Published