Smallwood v. the State

BARNES, Presiding Judge.

Samuel Smallwood appeals his conviction for trafficking in methamphetamine and possession of drug-related items. Smallwood contends the trial court erred by failing to grant a mistrial when improper evidence came out regarding his criminal history. For the reasons that follow, we affirm.

“[W]hether to grant a motion for mistrial is within the trial court’s sound discretion, and the trial court’s exercise of that discretion will not be disturbed on appeal unless a mistrial is essential to preserve the defendant’s right to a fair trial.” (Citation and punctuation…