Case Brief
Name
Institution
Parties:
United States (Plaintiff) v. Clemons (Defendant)
Facts:
Clemons and Smith were found guilty of killing a federal agent as he performed his official duties. Clemons was further found culpable of utilizing and carrying a gun while committing a violent crime.
Prior Proceedings:
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Alabama was the court that first heard the case. It ruled in the state’s favor finding the defendants guilty of the charges they were being accused of.
Issues Presented or Questions of Law:
• Was the proof presented inadequate to prove that the victim was a federal agent engaged in carrying out his official duties when the killing occurred?
• Did the court misuse its judgment when it admitted into evidence previous-similar acts of testimony?
• Did the court misuse its judgment when it admitted into evidence a waiver and confession that Clemons performed in connection with a juvenile adjudication?
Arguments or Objectives of the Parties:
The defendants argued that federal agent was not on duty when he was killed. They further claimed that the court made a mistake when it used Clemon’s unredacted confession in connection with a juvenile adjudication.
Holding/Rule of Law:
Various case laws have shown that an agent who is on their way to work is considered to be performing their official duties. Rule 404 (b) that dictates the Assessment of evidence requires the court to establish the relevance of evidence to an issue apart from the defendant’s character, and to establish if there is adequate proof to make it possible for a jury to find a preponderance of the evidence that the accused committed an act that was extrinsic.
Saint Leo Core Values Displayed:
The defendants violated the Saint Leo Core values of respect when they killed the federal agent as they showed disregard for human life.
Rationale:
The victim was on his way to work hence was performing her official duties. The only feature of Clemons’ previous carjacking offence differentiating from his past acts is that it led to murder. Smith’s substantial rights were not affected by Clemons’ confession.
Conclusion:
The rulings of the lower court are affirmed.
