State v. Mazzante

Hunt, J. —

James Mazzante was charged with assault of a child in the first degree. The trial court denied Mazzante’s pretrial motion to exclude his tape-recorded statement to police, ruling that the tape "substantially complied” with RCW 9.73.090. Mazzante seeks interlocutory review. We reverse and remand.

FACTS

On April 23, 1995, C. Mazzante, a six-week-old infant, was admitted to Mary Bridge Hospital, suffering from a subdural hematoma to the head, retinal hemorrhaging, and two fractured legs. A doctor concluded that these injuries were not accidental, but rather the result of "classic” abuse.

O…