Crouse v. State

Crouse, the appellant, was convicted of stealing* a Chevrolet 1% ton truck of the value of $300.00, and seed cotton of the same value, and sentenced to the state penitentiary for two years.

The State was permitted to introduce in evidence a written statement signed and acknowledged by him admitting his guilt. He says the statement was not freely and voluntarily made; that it was obtained by duress, threats and hope of reward.

He so testified. He was the only witness who did so testify. On the other hand, E. J. Smith, Jr., Chief Deputy Sheriff, Criminal Division, Coahoma County, Mississippi, and…