State v. Bellamy

Harwell, Justice:

Appellant was convicted of murder and criminal conspiracy. He received the death penalty and five years, respectively. This case consolidates appellant’s direct appeal and our mandatory review of the death sentence, pursuant to S. C. Code Ann. § 16-3-25 (1976, as amended). We reverse and remand.

On February 11,1986, appellant bought a .38 caliber pistol at a pawn shop. On February 28, 1986, appellant killed the victim by shooting him five times in the head at close range. At trial, the state contended that this was a contract killing or murder for hire. The state attempted to…