Taylor v. State

Clifford Taylor appeals the denial of his motion for post-conviction relief based on Rule 29.15 and the assertion that he received ineffective assistance of appellate counsel. Because we determine that the motion court clearly erred, we reverse the denial of relief.

Background

Around 3:45 p.m. on August 23, 2001, Officer Paul Luster and Officer Michael Eickmann were on patrol in Kansas City. As the officers crested a hill, they noticed a man walking in the middle of the street. Under Kansas City ordinance 70-786, walking in the street, where a sidewalk has been provided, is a traffic violation.…