State v. Youngblood

OPINION

LACAGNINA, Judge.

In this appeal on remand from the United States Supreme Court, Larry Youngblood once again argues for reversal of his convictions for child molestation, sexual assault and kidnapping because evidence crucial to his defense was lost.

We find that Youngblood was deprived of a fair trial and denied due process of law under the Arizona Constitution and well-established Arizona case law because the failure to preserve certain evidence resulted in prejudice to him. We reverse his convictions and the sentences imposed, and dismiss the case.

FACTS

David, the ten-year-old victim,…