State v. Hatcher

Ricky L. Hatcher appeals his conviction and sentence for distribution of crack cocaine and distribution of crack cocaine within proximity of a park. He argues the trial court erred in admitting drug evidence for which the State failed to prove the chain of custody and in misstating to the jury the State’s burden of proof. We reverse and remand.

FACTS

On October 6, 2006, a confidential police informant purchased forty dollars’ worth of crack cocaine from Hatcher. Two police officers followed the informant and maintained visual contact with him as he traveled to meet Hatcher. The informant wore a…