State v. Gregory

HOWARD, Judge.

Michael J. Gregory appeals from his conviction of assault in the third degree, § 565.070.1(1) RSMo Cum.Supp.1998. Gregory’s sole point on appeal is that the trial court erred in refusing to allow him to testify on direct examination about his pri- or convictions because the preclusion adversely affected his credibility with the jury in that his testimony was his only defense and the anticipated testimony regarding prior convictions was not intended to be used for impeachment purposes, but rather as a long accepted common law trial tactic, designed to reduce the prejudicial…