Fernandez v. State

FLETCHER, Judge.

Manuel Fernandez appeals his convictions of first-degree murder and burglary of an occupied dwelling. Because of errors in the jury selection process, we reverse and remand for a new trial.

During jury selection, the State used its first peremptory challenge to strike an African-American prospective juror. Ultimately a twelve-member panel which included two other African-Americans (Shiffrin and Lewis) was tendered. Before the jury was sworn, however, the prosecutor peremptorily challenged first Shiffrin and then Lewis. Immediately after the striking of Lewis, defense counsel…