People v. Clemens

After a bench trial, the defendant, Willie Clemens, was found guilty of the murder of one Phillip Christopher, and was sentenced to the penitentiary for a term of not less than 20 nor more than 40 years.

On appeal he contends that (1) the court erred in denying a defense motion to suppress the defendant’s testimony at the Coroner’s inquest; (2) he was not proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and (3) his sentence should be reduced.

Prior to trial, the defendant pleaded not guilty and moved to suppress the statements made by him at the Coroner’s inquest. After an evidentiary hearing the…