In re the Personal Restraint of Howerton

— Aaron Howerton was convicted of first degree aggravated murder in May 1995 and was sentenced to a term of life in prison. At trial, the State argued that Howerton was the principal actor in the murder and that he was aided by Timothy Barnes (AKA“T-Dog”). In response to conflicting evidence regarding the extent of Howerton’s involvement, however, the State alternatively maintained his culpability as an accomplice. After finding Howerton guilty of first degree premeditated murder, the jury returned affirmative findings on two aggravating factors. While Howerton alleges several errors in this…