People v. King

Defendant William Preston King was charged with assault with intent to commit murder. The charge arose from a fight in a crowded barroom. During the fight, complainant, Emmett Williams, was allegedly shot by defendant. The trial court, sitting without a jury, convicted defendant of assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder. The defendant was sentenced to 9-1/2 to 10 years in prison. Defendant’s motion for new trial was denied, and the Court of Appeals affirmed his conviction. (23 Mich App 16.) We granted leave to appeal. (384 Mich 757.)

During the trial, the following brief…