Opinion ID: 2569334
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: hedges' statements

Text: Hedges was not advised of his Miranda rights at the hospital where he gave statements to the social worker who screened him for involuntary commitment in the presence of police officers. Hedges was advised of his Miranda rights when he was later questioned by officers at the police station. After being advised of his right to remain silent, Hedges said, I don't know if that is the right thing to do. The officer informed Hedges that he could not give Hedges legal advice. Hedges then stated, I will waive my rights. The officer asked Hedges if he understood his Miranda rights. Hedges stated he did, and questioning commenced. Hedges stated to the officers that he had no intention of killing Roberta, but his intention was to burn the house down. Prior to trial, defense counsel moved to suppress the statements Hedges made to the social worker at the hospital and his later statements made to law enforcement officers at the Douglas County jail. The trial court determined that the statements Hedges made to the social worker at the hospital prior to being advised of his Miranda rights were not admissible. The trial court then concluded that, after Hedges was advised of his Miranda rights at the Douglas County jail, he knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights. The court denied Hedges' motion to suppress the statements made at the jail to the officers. Hedges first contends the statements he made at the county jail were tainted by the prior statements he made at the hospital. Hedges then argues that due to his mental state, his waiver of his Miranda rights was not knowing and voluntary.