Opinion ID: 1342405
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Exclusion of Marcus Thompson's Lawyer's Testimony

Text: During the guilt phase, Mercer sought to introduce testimony from Thompson's lawyer regarding the reduced charges against Thompson. [4] Specifically, Mercer wanted to introduce testimony that he and Thompson were initially charged with the same offenses, but later Thompson's charges were reduced and he was released on bond. Mercer claimed the information was relevant as part of his defense of third-party guilt. The State objected to this testimony, asserting that it was not relevant to third-party guilt or otherwise. The trial court sustained the objection. Finding the proffered testimony of Thompson's attorney concerning Thompson's reduced charges and bail status not relevant to any issue before the jury, including third-party guilt, we affirm pursuant to Rule 220(b)(1), SCACR. [5]