State v. Jose A. Rodriguez

Summary

The Rhode Island Supreme Court affirmed Rodriguez's convictions for possession of heroin with intent to deliver, possession of cocaine with intent to deliver, and possession of a knife while committing a crime of violence, holding that the evidence was sufficient and that the trial judge did not abuse discretion in admitting prior drug‑transaction testimony under Rule 404(b). The Court also affirmed the denial of Rodriguez's motion for a new trial. Justice Robinson filed a concurring opinion criticizing the majority's extensive discussion of Rule 404(b).