State v. Blevins

We consider whether a deputy’s limited contact with jurors, before whom he later testified as a prosecution witness, necessitated a mistrial. The trial court determined otherwise and, as we conclude, did not abuse its discretion in so ruling. Thus, we reject the sole point on appeal and affirm appellant Blevins’ convictions.

Background

Deputy Clay Jeffries, on patrol, saw Blevins’ truck go by. Aware that Blevins’ license was revoked, the deputy followed and activated his lights. Before the truck stopped, a loaded pistol was tossed out the passenger window.

Blevins was driving. Carrie Messick was…