Sims v. State

John E. Jennings, Judge.

On February 23, 1985, Roger Dale Sims shot and killed Charlie Parker in Kelley’s Bar at the Morgan Interchange. Both men had been drinking; Parker, heavily. There was evidence from which the jury could find that the shooting was intentional. Sims was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to ten years in prison.

Sims testified in his own behalf that he pulled the gun in self-defense and that it discharged accidentally. There was evidence that Parker had a reputation for violence, and that Sims knew it. On cross-examination the state asked Sims if he had been convicted…