State v. Efferson

McKinley Efferson (the "defendant") was charged with second degree murder, but was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 36 years' imprisonment at hard labor. He now appeals his sentence and conviction and urges two assignments of error: (1) the trial court erred in excluding evidence of the victim's "dangerous character" pursuant to La. C.E. Art. 404 ; and (2) his sentence is unconstitutionally excessive. For the reasons stated herein, we affirm.

FACTS

Reginald Wess ("Mr. Wess"), the victim, was engaged to marry the defendant's mother, Mattie Efferson ("Ms. Efferson"). Mr. Wess and the…