Tumblin v. State

Alwin C. Tumblin appeals from a judgment of conviction of first-degree murder and a sentence of death, as well as a conviction for robbery with a firearm. We have jurisdiction. See art. V, § 3(b)(1), Fla. Const. For the reasons set forth below, we reverse the convictions, vacate the sentence of death, and remand for a new trial. We conclude that reversible error occurred in the guilt phase of the trial, which affected both the guilt phase and the penalty phase, when a police officer gave his opinion of the truthfulness of a key State witness.

FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY

Overview

This case…