People v. Thorpe

The defendant was convicted by a jury of the crime of possession of narcotics (marijuana) contrary to MCLA § 335.153 (Stat Ann 1957 Rev § 18.1123). The verdict was rendered on April 16,1970, in Recorder’s Court for the City of Detroit.

During the argument to the jury, the defense’s theory of innocence was that defendant did not possess narcotics.

In the main charge, the court instructed the jury on a guilty and not guilty verdict based upon reasonable doubt; the presumption of innocence; and the jury’s function in relation to the credibility of witnesses. The court before the conclusion of its…