People v. Patterson

This case presents for decision a novel and important issue: How broad is the protection furnished by an order granting immunity from prosecution to a witness who then testifies before a Citizens’ Grand Jury?

Most of the material facts are not in dispute. On March 22, 1973 defendant-appellant, Ruth Patterson, was found guilty by jury verdict of bribing two police officers in violation of MCLA 750.117; MSA 28.312. She was sentenced on April 12, 1973 to a term of from two to four years in prison. She appeals by right.

Patterson admittedly operated a "blind pig” in the City of Detroit. She also…