State v. Jones

MARTIN (Robert M.), Judge.

By their first assignment of error, defendants contend that the trial court erred in consolidating their trials. Each contends that the other’s election to testify effectively denied his own right to remain silent. We find no merit in this assignment.

Ordinarily, the decision to join the charges against two or more defendants for trial is within the sound discretion of the trial judge and will not be disturbed on appeal absent an abuse of discretion. State v. Porter, 303 N.C. 680, 281 S.E. 2d 377 (1981); State v. Smith, 291 N.C. 505, 231 S.E. 2d 663 (1977). Absent a…