New York Court of Appeals
The People of the State of New York v. . Lorenzo Baker
June 24, 188496 N.Y. 340
Summary
The New York Court of Appeals reversed Lorenzo Baker's conviction for obtaining money by false pretenses, holding that the prosecution failed to prove the essential element of fraudulent intent and that no false representation was made at the time the $575 was received. The court emphasized that intent to defraud must be proved as a factual issue for the jury and that mere silence or suppression of truth does not constitute false pretenses. Justice Miller dissented, arguing that the evidence showed fraudulent intent and reliance. The case was remanded for a new trial.