State v. Douglas

Finney, Justice:

Appellant James O’Neal Douglas was convicted for murder, armed robbery and using a firearm in commission of the crimes. We reverse and remand for a new trial.

On August 12, 1987, around 11:30 P.M., John Newton Barber was walking home from work when he encountered the appellant and John Allen Dixon. Moments later, a shot was fired and Barber was killed. Dixon testified for the state at appellant’s trial and asserted that appellant had robbed and murdered Barber. Appellant testified and admitted ownership of the murder weapon, but insisted he had loaned the gun to Dixon shortly…