State v. Chappelle

STEELMAN, Judge.

Where the State presented substantial evidence of each element of arson, the trial court did not err in denying defendant’s motions to dismiss. Testimony that the victim of the arson refused to agree to allow defendant to store stolen goods in her home was relevant to show defendant’s motive to burn the premises. The trial court did not err in allowing defendant to dismiss counsel over tactical differences and represent himself after a thorough colloquy demonstrating that his waiver of his right to counsel was knowing and voluntary. The prosecutor’s closing argument…