Opinion ID: 852990
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Comments on Failure to Testify

Text: Malinski alleges prosecutorial misconduct, saying that during final argument the prosecution made two improper comments on Malinski's failure to testify. Malinski further alleges that the comments had a prejudicial impact that was fundamental, warranting a new trial. The first comment referred to a typed letter the police recovered from Malinski's residence that appeared to be from Lori to David. Prosecutor Douglas stated: Folks, the defendant isn't going to tell you Lori wrote that letter. And you know she didn't write that letter because it's absolutely nonsense ... (R. at 4918.) The second comment mentioned a broken camcorder taken in the February 2nd burglary of the Kirkley home. Deputy prosecutor Shellenbarger stated: There's never been a really full explanation for what the motive of taking the property was in either of the defendant's statements, but if it was to raise money for them to run away together, it's absurd to steal a broken camcorder. (R. at 4920.) Malinski did not object to either of these statements, and thus has not preserved any issue for appeal.