People v. Champion

The defendant placed before the jury his reputation for being truthful, peaceful and law-abiding. He challenges the prosecutor’s introduction in rebuttal of evidence of specific acts of misconduct. We agree with the defendant and reverse his conviction.

I

The facts underlying this prosecution were well-stated by the Court of Appeals. 97 Mich App 25, 27-28; 293 NW2d 715 (1980).

The defendant called Merritt W. Tumanis and Walter Raymond to testify as character witnesses. Mr. Tumanis testified that he had known the defendant for about a year and a half and that the defendant had a good reputation…