What if they held a trial but nobody prosecuted?
March 4, 2014Here’s the opening at A Public Defender… Read the rest at your leisure.
What if they gave a prosecution and the prosecution took its ball and went home?
From the ‘don’t-try-this-at-home-kids‘ department, a truly flabbergasting story out of Illinois of hubris, hissy-fits and the Double Jeopardy Clause.
Today, the United States Supreme Court will meet to decide whether to hear the case of Esteban Martinez. Martinez is in an unusual position, however. He isn’t convicted of anything. In fact, he was acquitted of an assault. But the State of Illinois wants to get a second crack at him. They want to try him again. Because the first time around, they did absolutely nothing.
No, that’s not hyperbole or “insider-talk”. They literally did nothing. From the Illinois Supreme Court opinion:
According to the report of proceedings, “the jurors were duly sworn by the clerk.” The court then provided the jurors with general, preliminary instructions. Thereafter, the court indicated to the State that it could proceed in presenting its case in chief. The following exchange then occurred:
“[The Prosecutor]: Your Honor, respectfully, the State is not participating in this case.
THE COURT: Defense?
[Defense Counsel]: Judge, we would waive opening statement.
THE COURT: The People may call their first witness.
[The Prosecutor]: Respectfully, your Honor, the State is not participating in this matter.
THE COURT: Does the defense wish to be heard?
[Defense Counsel]: I do, Judge.
THE COURT: Ladies and Gentlemen, we’ll take a ten-minute break.”
¶ 8 Upon the jurors leaving the courtroom, the following exchange occurred:
“[Defense Counsel]: Judge, the jury has been sworn. The State has not presented any evidence. I believe they’ve indicated their intention not to present any evidence or witnesses. Based on that, Judge, I would ask the Court to enter directed findings of not guilty to both counts, aggravated battery and mob action.
THE COURT: Do the People wish to reply?
[The Prosecutor]: No, your Honor. Respectfully, the State is not participating.
THE COURT: The Court will grant a motion for a directed finding and dismiss the charges.”
Here, let me help you with your jaw.
No Truce With Kings 
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