People v. Mata

Opinion

GINSBURG, J.*

In this case, we consider whether the doctrine of collateral estoppel bars the conviction of one of three coconspirators of murder in the first degree where one of his two coconspirators has previously been convicted of the lesser offense of murder in the second degree. We have concluded that where, as in the instant case, the accused’s guilt need not be predicated upon the guilt of his previously tried confederate, the doctrine of collateral estoppel does not apply.

*236Facts and Background

This case arose out of a planned robbery and the killing of the victim in the course of…