State v. Ruiz

We reverse these two companion cases, which we understand will necessitate new trials, because the prosecutor failed to comply with the law regarding disclosure of exculpatory and inculpatory information. We are reversing primarily because, after agonizing appraisal, we are convinced a reversal is the only way to assure each defendant a fair trial and, therefore, to best serve the system of criminal justice.

Richard Woten died of stab wounds about 12:30 a.m. on May 11, 1980 behind an establishment known as Zim merman’s Bar in Kenosha. Raul Ruiz and Antonio Ser-vantez were subsequently tried…