New York Court of Appeals

The People of the State of New York v. Woodrow Miller

May 29, 19596 N.Y.2d 152

Summary

The New York Court of Appeals reversed Woodrow Miller's murder conviction and ordered a new trial because the trial judge failed to adequately answer the jury's questions about the possible felony‑murder verdicts and admitted prejudicial testimony concerning the victim’s family, violating statutory duties and prejudicing the defendant. The Court held that such errors required reversal. Justice Dye dissented, contending that the jury instructions were sufficient and no error occurred.