MANSINGH v. State

Anderson Mansingh appeals his convictions for first-degree murder and burglary of a dwelling with an assault or battery, following a jury trial. Mansingh raises three issues on appeal, only one of which merits discussion.

Mansingh contends he was deprived of his constitutional right to a public trial when the trial court excluded the public during voir dire, despite his objection and request they be allowed to sit in the jury box. As the jury was preparing to enter the courtroom for voir dire, the court deputy informed individuals seated in the back of the courtroom that they would need to…