Seals v. State

The plaintiff in error was convicted of rape, and brings here for review a judgment denying him a new trial. Cora Jones, the alleged victim of the crime, was sworn as a witness. Her testimony made out a strong case of rape, except that it was unsatisfactory as to whether or not there was actual penetration. There was testimony tending to show that she had previously been a virtuous woman, and evidence to the contrary attacking her character for chastity. In this connection the court charged: “Her character for virtue is immaterial, except as it may affect her character for veracity. That is,…