State v. Styles

Robin Kerry Styles appeals his conviction of second-degree assault while armed with a firearm. His appeal questions (1) the striking of defense testimony that Styles appeared surprised when the gun fired, (2) the scope of cross-examination of Styles and (3) the scope of cross-examination of defense character witnesses. We reverse.

The charge arose out of a shooting incident in a tavern in Burlington on April 29, 1977. The victim testified that Styles shot at him and the bullet struck the floor between his feet. Styles and a friend testified that the gun went off accidentally. Three character…