Cowan v. Commonwealth

PALMORE, Chief Justice.

The appellant, William David (Willie) Cowen, was indicted for murder with two previous felony convictions. He appeals from a judgment entered pursuant to a verdict finding him guilty of involuntary manslaughter and prescribing a sentence of' 12 years in prison. KRS 435.022(1).

The evidence presented a substantial case of self-defense, and the first question before us on the appeal is whether Willie was entitled to a directed verdict on that basis.

The fatal event took place near the corner of 10th and Union Streets in Shelbyville. 10th Street runs north and south and…