State v. Hottle

Billy Joe Hottle appeals his August 12, 1994 conviction by jury of two felony murders, two attempted murders in the first degree, one kidnapping, one attempted aggravated robbery and three grand larcenies. No recommendation of mercy was made by the jury. On appeal, Mr. Hottle alleges the following assignments of error: (1) ineffective assistance of counsel; (2) prejudicial joinder; (3) admission of evidence of unrelated crimes; (4) failure to give instructions about and verdict form for second degree murder; and (5) failure to disqualify the prosecuting attorney because of personal interest.…