This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

D was charged with first-degree murder. D contended at trial that he shot the victim, Harrell, in self-defense. D claimed that Harrell was a 6ft 3in. 280-pound manic-depressive who was coming through his doorway at his home and business threatening to kill him. D also admitted that when he shot Harrell, Harrell did not have a weapon in his hand. D was also questioned about prior misconduct in that he pointed a shotgun at a Mike Hall just three months before and even pointed one at the Chief of Police when he came to serve a warrant on D. The trial judge permitted the evidence over D's objection. D was convicted and appealed.

The legal issues presented in this case will be displayed here.

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Legal analysis from Dean's Law Dictionary will be displayed here.