Opinion ID: 779815
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: the delay between the crime and formal charges

Text: 25 Manning next claims that the delay between the time of the crime and the initiation of criminal proceedings against him was so long that he was deprived of due process. To prevail on a claim that delay in charging violated his due process, Manning must show that his defense has been substantially prejudiced by an unreasonable delay. Bennett v. Lockhart, 39 F.3d 848, 851 (8th Cir.1994). To succeed on this claim, Manning must establish actual prejudice, by identifying with specificity the evidence lost during the delay. Id. If Manning can show actual prejudice from the delay, the burden shifts to the state to show that the delay was not unreasonable. Id. A delay is not unreasonable if it is the result of a legitimate purpose, such as investigation. Id. 26 Manning was prejudiced by the delay. In the six and a half year delay between the crime and the filing of charges, three potential witnesses died. Two of these witnesses were also suspects in the kidnapping, while the third was a government informant. Certainly, Manning would have been better prepared had these witnesses been available for questioning. Most notably, Manning would have been apprised of the evidence against him, as well as the deficiencies in the state's witnesses. The presentation of Manning's case was hindered by not having these witnesses available. 27 Nonetheless, Manning is not entitled to relief on this claim. The delay between the crime and the charges was based on investigation. Following the crime, neither victim talked for several months. When they did, they were not able to identify any assailants because both victims were blindfolded throughout the ordeal. There were no further breaks in the case until Mammolito gave a statement in 1989. Following Mammolito's statement, investigation continued, and charges were ultimately brought in July of 1990. Because delay based on further investigation is reasonable, no due process violation occurred.