State v. Glick

Defendant appeals his convictions for robbery in the third degree and assault in the fourth degree. He contends that the trial judge erred in denying his motions for a mistrial. The dispositive issue is whether the trial judge had discretion to deny the motions. We conclude that as a matter of law he did not. Therefore, we reverse and remand for a new trial.

Defendant was brought into the courtroom for a jury trial wearing handcuffs and a belly chain. The trial judge conducted an in camera inquiry as to the reason for the restraints. The prosecutor told the judge that he had requested Deputy…