Neely v. State

Cordero Neely (“Neely”) appeals from his conviction and sentence. Neely was found guilty by a jury of first-degree murder, armed robbery, attempted armed robbery while wearing a mask, and armed carjacking. He was sentenced to life in prison on all four counts. On appeal, Neely raises three issues: (1) whether the trial court erred in denying Neely’s motion to suppress his post-arrest statement because he did not properly waive his Miranda rights; (2) whether the trial court abused its discretion in declining Neely’s request to instruct the jury on the “independent act” defense; and (3)…