Marvin Howard Bockting v. Robert BayerMarvin Howard Bockting v. Robert Bayer
Versions:408 F.3d 11272005 WL 12788212005 U.S. App. LEXIS 9982
ORDER
The opinion filed February 22, 2005, slip op.1991, and appearing at
At
The final question is whether admission of Autumn’s statement “had substantial and injurious effect or influence in determining the jury’s verdict.” See Brecht v. Abrahamson,507 U.S. 619 , 623,113 S.Ct. 1710 ,123 L.Ed.2d 353 (1993). The detective’s testimony regarding Autumn’s interview was a critical piece of evidence, particularly in view of Autumn’s inconsistent testimony at the preliminary hearing, and weaknesses in Laura Bockting’s testimony. Even if Autumn’s statement to the mother was, for argument’s sake, considered admissible, the detective’s description of Autumn’s interview was so significant as corroborating evidence that its admisr sion had a substantial and injurious effect or influence in determining the jury’s verdict. Thus, the admission of Autumn’s statement requires reversal.
The petition for panel rehearing is DENIED. The petition for rehearing en banc is pending before the Court. No further petitions -may be filed.