State v. Phillips

Melvin Phillips appeals his conviction of illegal possession of stolen property valued at least $500, and his sentence of ten years at hard labor as a second offender. For the following reasons, we vacate the conviction and sentence, enter a conviction of illegal possession of stolen property valued under $100, and remand the matter for resentencing.

STATEMENT OF CASE:

On August 11, 2003 the appellant Melvin Phillips was charged with one count of illegal possession of stolen property valued at $500 or more.1 At the conclusion of a two-day trial, a jury found him guilty as charged. The State…