Washington v. State

OPINION

CLINTON, Judge.

The offense is theft over $200.00. Punishment was assessed at 10 years. The controlling issue is the voluntariness of the confession introduced at trial.

This case presents an unusual fact situation involving a plea bargain. Appellant was originally charged in a two count indictment with burglary and theft. The case had proceeded as far as voir dire of the jury when plea negotiations were conducted in the trial judge’s chambers. Appellant requested the opportunity to take a polygraph examination, but the prosecution would agree only if appellant would first plead guilty…