State v. Lyle.

Summary

The court reversed the conviction and ordered a new trial because the trial court improperly excluded material alibi evidence and evidence of the good reputation of an important defense witness. It also held that contemporaneous similar transactions could be admitted to establish identity, but that more remote Georgia transactions were inadmissible to prove identity, intent, or a common plan. The court further addressed the permissible use and authentication of handwriting exemplars. Chief Justice Gary dissented.