Opinion ID: 877465
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: analysis of the charges filed, the instructions given, and the verdicts returned in this case

Text: The formal charge for each count, the instructions for each count, and the verdict forms for each count, present essentially the same problems. The instructions for count I, the deliberate homicide charge, for count II, the aggravated kidnapping charge, and for count III, the sexual intercourse without consent charge, respectively gave the jury several alternative statutory theories on which the jury could base its verdict. The jury was given a general unanimity instruction designed to apply to all three counts. But the jury was not instructed that it must unanimously agree to any one or more of the alternative statutory theories. Furthermore, the verdict forms required nothing more than a determination that the defendant was guilty or not guilty of deliberate homicide, guilty or not guilty of aggravated kidnapping, and guilty or not guilty of sexual intercourse without consent. The general instruction on unanimity (instruction no. 41) stated: You are instructed that when you retire, you are to elect one of your members as foreman who will sign any verdicts arrived at by the jury. Such verdicts must be unanimous, which means that all of you must agree on the verdicts. Verdict forms will be provided for your convenience. When you have reached your verdicts, you will notify the bailiff who will return you into court. (Emphasis added.) I next proceed to discuss each of the separate charges.