Simpson v. Moore

Chief Justice TOAL:

Respondent-Petitioner Keith Lasean Simpson (Simpson) was found guilty of murder and received a death sentence. Simpson appealed and this Court affirmed. State v. Simpson, 325 S.C. 37, 479 S.E.2d 57 (1996). Simpson filed for post-conviction relief (PCR). The PCR court denied relief on all issues related to guilt but granted relief on sentencing. We affirm in part and reverse in part.

Factual/Procedural Background

Simpson and his accomplice planned to rob a convenience store. Armed with guns, the two men went to a store owned by Joe Harrison. Once there, Simpson went inside the…