State v. Williams

Kevin Williams (Williams) appeals his convictions for voluntary manslaughter and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, arguing the circuit court erred in (1) allowing the State to comment on Williams’ post-arrest silence in violation of Doyle v. Ohio, 426 U.S. 610, 96 S.Ct. 2240, 49 L.Ed.2d 91 (1976); and (2) denying Williams’ request to charge the jury on defense of habitation. We reverse and remand.

FACTS

On the night of July 9, 2007, Williams was at home with his common-law wife of eighteen years, Valerie Young (Valerie); their two children, Kevin Jr. and Kelsey;…