Airsman v. State
2014 Ark. 500
Ark.2014Background
- Airsman, Jr. was convicted of first‑degree murder and sentenced to life plus 15 years for a firearm enhancement in Hempstead County.
- The State’s case showed Jones was last seen at Airsman’s Saratoga home and later found dead in Jones’s burned car in Texas.
- Evidence included Airsman’s inconsistent statements to family and police, and his father’s testimony describing the shooting and cover‑up.
- Jones had previously sought a protective order against Airsman based on fear for his safety.
- Airsman’s Missouri statement admitted shooting Jones; his Arkansas statement further confessed and provided additional details.
- The circuit court denied Airsman’s suppression motion and the motion in limine; a jury found Airsman guilty after considering justification and other theories.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insufficiency of the evidence for first‑degree murder | Airsman argues self‑defense negates intent | State contends substantial evidence supported intent | Substantial evidence supports murder conviction |
| Denial of suppression of Missouri/Arkansas statements | Right to counsel invoked; delay/processing prejudiced | Airsman initiated contact; delay not unlawful | No suppression error; statements admissible |
| Admission of photographs in limine ruling | Photos were prejudicial and unnecessary | Photos aided understanding of wounds and corroboration | No abuse of discretion; photographs admissible to corroborate testimony |
Key Cases Cited
- Loggins v. State, 2010 Ark. 414 (Ark. 2010) (sufficiency review; direct or circumstantial evidence must support verdict)
- Williams v. State, 325 Ark. 432, 930 S.W.2d 297 (Ark. 1996) (intent may be inferred from circumstances and weapon use)
- Brunson v. State, 368 Ark. 313, 245 S.W.3d 132 (Ark. 2006) (jury credibility resolution; defense rejected by jury)
- Copeland v. State, 343 Ark. 327, 37 S.W.3d 567 (Ark. 2001) (intent may be inferred from weapon and manner of killing)
- Davis v. State, 2009 Ark. 478, 348 S.W.3d 553 (Ark. 2009) (laying out inference of intent from circumstances)