People v. Tomes

Defendant appeals his jury convictions for attempted first degree murder and aggravated discharge of a firearm, raising a variety of issues. For the reasons that follow, we affirm defendant’s conviction for aggravated discharge of a firearm and reverse the conviction for attempted murder by reason of the response by the trial court to an inquiry from the jury.

The following represents the facts relevant to defendant’s appeal. In June of 1994, Tommy Selover (Selover) and Jason Tomes (defendant) agreed to become roommates in a basement apartment owned by Selover’s father. Defendant was required…