State v. Collins

Mary Collins and Zadie White were charged in separate informations with the crime of vagrancy on two counts: (1) soliciting prostitution, and (2) being lewd, disorderly and dissolute. See RCW 9.87.010. The cases were consolidated for trial. Judgment was entered by the trial court against both defendants (appellants) upon a jury verdict of guilty on both counts. The defendants appeal.

The defendants first contend that they were denied a fair trial by reason of the comments of the trial court di rected to the defense counsel and its adjudging him in contempt in the presence of the jury, (1)…