United States v. Hiss

GODDARD, District Judge.

Memorandum in respect to the admission of psychiatric testimony to impeach the credibility of the Government witness, Whittaker Chambers.

It is apparent that the outcome of this trial is dependent to a great extent upon the testimony of one man — Whittaker Chambers. Mr. Chambers’ credibility is one of the major issues upon which the jury must pass. The opinion of the jury— formed upon their evaluation of all the evidence laid before them — is the decisive authority on this question as on all questions of fact.

The existence of insanity or mental derangement is admissible…