Okonkwo v. State

OPINION

ADELE HEDGES, Chief Justice.

Appellant Chidiebele Gabriel Okonkwo was convicted of forgery. Punishment was assessed at three years’ community supervision. In a single issue, appellant contends that he was denied effective assistance of counsel. We reverse and remand.

Appellant is a Nigerian-born engineer with a masters degree from an American university. At the time of trial, he worked for a large oilfield services company and someday aspired to return to his home country and establish his own business. In an effort to build his reputation and cultivate good will, he often acted as a…