State v. Strickland

CLEMENS, Presiding Judge.

A jury found defendant guilty of second degree burglary and stealing. The court sentenced defendant consecutively to eight years for burglary and four years for stealing. He appeals.

During trial the State introduced evidence of scratches and prymarks found on the Lee residence next door to the victim’s. Defendant contends this evidence was proof of another crime, attempted burglary, and was prejudicial. We agree.

The townhouse apartment of James Murray was burglarized on November 14, 1973. Hattie May, a next door neighbor, heard banging sounds and from her window saw…