Simmons v. State

The first and second headnotes will be discussed. The defendant introduced evidence to show his good character. In rebuttal, a witness for the State was asked if he was acquainted with the defendant’s general character — “Is it good or bad?” He answered: “I consider the making and handling of whisky affects a man’s character; well, I say it is bad character and causes trouble. Whatever trouble it may be, it is on what people say, general character. Well, I would say it is bad; anybody that sells whisky is bad.” Counsel for the defendant moved to exclude the testimony as to the character of…