Bales v. State

Ruffin, Judge.

Following a bench trial in the State Court of Rockdale County, the court convicted Stephen Bales of driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding. Bales appeals from the denial of his request for a jury trial, and we reverse.

The record shows that on August 8, 1996, Bales, who was represented by counsel, waived arraignment and entered a plea of not guilty but did not request a jury trial. On August 20, 1996, Bales’ counsel filed numerous motions, but again did not request a jury trial. When the case was called for trial, the State announced ready to proceed with a bench…