State v. Thomas

THIBODEAUX, Chief Judge.

hThe defendant, Robert James Thomas, appeals a jury verdict finding him guilty of second degree murder, and appeals the trial court’s judgment denying him a new trial. We reverse the jury verdict because the trial judge improperly questioned witnesses and grant the defendant a new trial.

I

ISSUES

We must decide whether the trial court erred in exceeding the scope of proper questioning of witnesses in the presence of the jury.

II

FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY

On May 19, 2009, the defendant, Robert James Thomas, allegedly knocked August Carter to the ground with one punch to…