Oregon Supreme Court
State v. Blue
November 25, 2025580 P.3d 826
Summary
The Oregon Supreme Court reversed the Court of Appeals and the circuit court, holding that the photograph of a signed U‑Haul contract was inadmissible as a duplicate because the defendant raised a genuine question as to the authenticity of the original. The Court also found the evidentiary error was not harmless and remanded for further proceedings.
Holding
- Whether the defendant raised a genuine question as to the authenticity of the original contract under OEC 1003(1).. Yes; the defendant's testimony and supporting evidence raised a genuine question, making the duplicate photograph inadmissible.
- Whether the trial court's admission of the photograph was harmless error.. No; the error was not harmless because the photograph was central, non‑cumulative evidence needed to prove a key element of the crime.
Docket S071076