State v. Combs

We have reviewed Combs’ fifteen propositions of law, independently assessed the evidence relating to the death sentences, balanced the aggravating circumstance in each count against the mitigating factors, and compared the sentence to those imposed in similar cases. As a result, we affirm the convictions and two death sentences.

I

Pretrial Statement about Lawyer

In his first proposition of law, Combs argues that the admission of his statement to Ventre, “talk to * * * [my] lawyer,” was constitutional error. When that statement was admitted, the trial court instructed the jury that the defendant…