Opinion ID: 2291737
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: StunTech React Belt System

Text: Appellant also seeks reversal of the trial court's decision requiring Appellant to conduct his entire trial while wearing a StunTech React Belt System, a security restraint that he alleges was identifiable to the jury. Appellant concludes that because the jury was able to see the restraint, he lost his presumption of innocence, and thus his right to a fair trial. The Commonwealth counters that the brace was not apparent to the jury and that if it was, the jury would merely have concluded that it was a medical brace, or would have not known what it was. They argue in the alternative, that it was harmless error to require Appellant to wear the device. We begin by noting that we are provided with no findings from the trial court on whether the restraint was visible to the jury. We therefore are unable to make a determination as to the correctness of the court's order. In any event, we instruct the trial court on remand, should the issue resurface, to determine the visibility of the device and the likelihood that it will be apparent to the jury. In the event the court finds the device will be apparent, the court should determine on the record the reasons supporting the use of the restraint. We find support for our reasoning in the language of RCr 8.28(5), which controls the use of shackles and restraints. It reads: During his or her appearance in court before a jury the defendant shall not be required to wear the distinctive clothing of a prisoner. Except for good cause shown the judge shall not permit the defendant to be seen by the jury in shackles or other devices for physical restraint. RCr 8.28(5). Here, as is obvious, RCr 8.28(5) concerns not whether a restraint or shackles may be used, but only their visibility. Only where good cause is shown may the court permit the defendant to be seen by the jury in shackles or other devices found necessary for physical restraint. Thus, we conclude that RCr 8.28(5) is not implicated where the jury cannot see the restraining device. Indeed where a restraint cannot be seen (or otherwise detected by the jury), the trial court may use the restraint at its discretion provided there is good reason for doing so. But as stated above, we do not have a finding regarding the visibility of the restraint and therefore remand for further consideration of that issue also.