State v. Powell

We have reviewed Powell’s seven propositions of law, independently balanced the aggravating circumstances against the mitigating factors, and evaluated the proportionality of the sentence to those imposed in similar cases. As a result, we affirm the convictions and sentence of death.

In his second proposition of law, Powell contends that the trial court should have appointed a psychiatrist to “assist in evaluation, preparation, and presentation of the defense.” Ake v. Oklahoma (1985), 470 U.S. 68, 83.

Ake held “that when a defendant demonstrates to the trial judge that his sanity at the time of…