Alexander v. State

Trial counsel was not ineffective in failing to investigate the defendant's mental health, as the defendant did not show any evidence regarding whether or how his mental condition caused or exacerbated his behavior in the case.

Thank you for sharing!

Your article was successfully shared with the contacts you provided.

Jacquin Alexander appeals from the denial of his motion for new trial following his conviction by a jury of battery1 two counts, simple battery2 two counts, disorderly conduct,3 and criminal trespass to property.4 He contends that he received ineffective assistance of counsel based on his trial counsel’s failure to 1 investigate his mental health, 2 adequately prepare him for testifying, 3 object to references to a prior protective order entered against him, and 4 object to leading questions and narrative testimony by the victim. For the reasons that follow, we affirm.

Construed in favor of the verdict,5 the evidence shows that Alexander had a tumultuous relationship with his girlfriend. After dating for a few months, the girlfriend decided to break up with Alexander. To end the relationship in person, the girlfriend requested that he pick her up from her workplace, which was two hours from his home in Clarke County. After the girlfriend informed Alexander of her decision, Alexander grew angry and took away her two cell phones so that she could not leave or contact anyone. Alexander pushed her onto a bed and physically restrained her for approximately an hour while she screamed and attempted to retrieve her phones. The girlfriend grew exhausted, and Alexander eventually slumped against the closed bedroom door, blocking the exit. Because Alexander was unresponsive, the girlfriend splashed some water in his face to awaken him, and Alexander quickly opened his eyes and replied “What the f—are you doing” The girlfriend then ignored him, and the two eventually fell asleep.

Alexander v. State

Trial counsel was not ineffective in failing to investigate the defendant's mental health, as the defendant did not show any evidence regarding whether or how his mental condition caused or exacerbated his behavior in the case.

Share with Email

Thank you for sharing!

Trending Stories

More From ALM

Subscribe to Daily Report