Richardson v. State

We must decide under the circumstances of this case whether the prosecuting witness was justifiably held in contempt for refusing to testify after asserting his privilege against self incrimination.

On March 23, 1978, before the Circuit Court for Queen Anne’s County, Paul Edward Richardson, appellant, was called as the prosecuting witness in the trial of James Copper, who was charged with assault with intent to murder the appellant. After taking the stand and being duly sworn, appellant gave his name, address, and age. He then acknowledged that he knew Copper, but when asked by the State’s…