Jones v. State

Courtney Jones appeals his life sentences for first-degree murder and armed robbery with discharge of a firearm, claiming that the four references to his prior convictions during his trial require a new trial despite the curative instruction that was given. We agree, and reverse and remand for a new trial.

During trial, testimony adduced by the State informed the jury on four different occasions that Jones had a prior felony record. The statements included: a witness’s testimony that he met Jones while they were incarcerated together at the Spring Hill Road, Department of Corrections; a…