James Chaffin v. Leroy Stynchcombe, Sheriff of Fulton County

GEWIN, Circuit Judge:

This case brings into focus obliquely the importance and weight to be accorded (a) conceptual abstractions as to crime and punishment, (b) principles which should govern the sound administration of justice in criminal cases, and (c) the societal interest in dealing fairly and effectively with those whose guilt is clearly established after being afforded a second trial following an appeal or postconviction proceeding in which a new trial was sought and granted. 1 2We do not discuss these concepts separately or in detail. They underlie our consideration of the case at hand.

J…