Opinion ID: 390265
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Evidence of a Prior Act of Misconduct of Ehrlich.

Text: 51 Ehrlich claims that questioning of the witness Peres by the prosecution as to Ehrlich's participation in Century City Enterprises-a stereo and electronics retail operation which went out of business owing its suppliers substantial sums-was so prejudicial as to require reversal despite the trial court's cautionary instruction. The court permitted the questioning after conducting a hearing on the admissibility of the evidence, in the absence of the jury. Initially, the trial court ruled that the evidence was admissible under Rule 404(b) F.R.Ev. But after hearing Peres' testimony as to this matter and after further objection by Ehrlich's counsel, the court decided that the evidence was in fact inadmissible. Accordingly, the court instructed the jury not to consider any evidence concerning Mr. Ehrlich's connection with Century City for any purpose whatsoever and nothing should be implied in any way to his disadvantage. The evidence given in no way showed misconduct or any sort of crime, or criminal or unlawful conduct or activity. And as I now indicate to the jury, disregard it for all purposes. After reviewing Peres' testimony on this matter, we find that the trial court's instruction to the jury cured any possible prejudice caused to Ehrlich. 52 In No. 79-1405, the judgment is reversed and the matter is remanded for further proceedings consistent with this opinion. 53 In No. 79-1458, the judgment is affirmed.