Opinion ID: 2441011
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Testimony of Allen Nicklasson

Text: Skillicorn next claims the trial court erred in denying his motion for a continuance while he sought to obtain a writ of habeas corpus ad testificandum to present Nicklasson's testimony to the court. Nicklasson allegedly sent Skillicorn a letter in which he stated I'm going to try everything in my power to get your death penalty conviction overturned. No matter what you say or anyone else, your situation is my fault. Rule 29.11(b) provides: (b) Time for Filing Motion. A motion for a new trial or a motion authorized by Rule 27.07(c) shall be filed within fifteen days after the return of the verdict. On application of the defendant made within fifteen days after the return of the verdict and for good cause shown the court may extend the time for filing of such motions for one additional period not to exceed ten days. We decide a case on appeal solely upon the assignments preserved in the motion for new trial. State v. Worley, 353 S.W.2d 589, 596-97 (Mo.1962). Skillicorn concedes his oral request to present newly discovered evidence was untimely. Nevertheless, he claims that the proffered evidence is such that the strictures imposed by Rule 29.11 should be ignored and the case remanded for new trial, or for a new punishment hearing, or that this Court should set aside the death sentence and enter a sentence of life imprisonment. The court of appeals decisions cited by Skillicorn for his claim of error have no similarity whatever to Skillicorn's case. See State v. Mooney, 670 S.W.2d 510 (Mo.Ct. App.1984); State v. Williams, 673 S.W.2d 847 (Mo.Ct.App.1984). Once the time within which to file a motion for new trial has expired, a remedy no longer lies through direct appeal. Wilson v. State, 813 S.W.2d 833, 834-35 (Mo. banc 1991). Moreover, we find nothing in Nicklasson's letter that is particularly exculpatory for Skillicorn. Although the statement admits Nicklasson's guilt, it does not negate Skillicorn's culpability. Point Nineteen is denied.