State v. Gulledge

Gregory, Justice:

Appellant was indicted for assault and battery with intent to kill in the shooting of highway partolman Frank Murphy when Murphy attempted to arrest him for speeding and driving under the influence. The jury found appellant guilty of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and the trial judge imposed a nine year sentence. We reverse and remand for a new trial.

During voir dire, at defense counsel’s request, the trial judge asked if any potential jurors were related by blood or marriage to present or former police or law enforcement officers. Defense counsel…