People v. Richardson

Defendant Virgil Richardson, convicted of murder in the first degree for the slaying of a New York City police officer, seeks a reversal upon several grounds. We may dispose of all but one of them with the simple statement that guilt is clearly established, the claim of self-defense thoroughly refuted and the criticism of the court’s instructions without basis or merit. The defendant’s remaining contention, that, although represented by counsel, he was entitled, as of right, personally to sum up to the jury, poses a question of first impression in this court and deserves more lengthy…