People v. Sanders

A review of the record leads me to the conclusion that the prosecutor’s simple reference to an arrest not resulting in a conviction did not constitute reversible error. However, the prosecutor’s use of a misdemeanor conviction for impeachment purposes causes me grave concern. This important issue has received too little attention by the courts of this state. The admission of a misdemeanor conviction for being a disorderly person in a murder trial to test the defendant’s credibility reveals to this writer a clear case where the prejudicial effect of evidence outweighs its relevancy. I,…