People v. Demetrulias

Opinion

WERDEGAR, J.

Gregory Spiros Demetrulias was convicted and sentenced to death for murdering Robert Miller in the commission of a robbery or attempted robbery against Miller. On his automatic appeal, we affirm the judgment in its entirety.

Factual and Procedural Background

Defendant fatally stabbed Miller in Miller’s room on the evening of January 10, 1989. The prosecution maintained he did so while robbing Miller. Defendant at trial admitted killing Miller, but claimed he did so in a struggle Miller initiated when defendant came to collect money Miller owed him.

Guilt Phase Evidence

Prosecuti…