United States v. Acosta-Vega

The principal issue before the Court in this case is the effect of the trial judge’s *727failure to give an instruction based upon evidence of the appellant’s military proficiency and general good character which was before the court.

The object of introducing character evidence is to raise in the minds of the finders of fact a reasonable doubt as to guilt.1 Although good character or reputation of an accused does not constitute a defense to a criminal charge,2 it is to be considered in connection with all other evidence in determining the general question of guilt or innocence and it is to be…