People v. Wells

The present matter concerns a single issue; i.e., whether the prosecution’s case in chief established the corpus delicti of first-degree, premeditated murder absent the introduction of defendant’s confession.

Defendant Nathan Wells was charged with first-degree murder, contrary to MCL 750.316; MSA 28.548. Following a jury trial, he was convicted of second-degree murder, MCL 750.317; MSA 28.549, and sentenced to life imprisonment. For the purposes of the issue on appeal, the testimony presented at defendant’s trial will be set forth in some detail.

The victim’s husband testified that he and his…