Court Opinion

ID: 9449515
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-04 16:14:19.068808+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T17:31:52.080472
License: Public Domain

*774FAHY, Circuit Judge.
I agree with Chief Judge BAZELON:
(1) That it was error for the District Court to create the impression that the Government’s case rested on testimony — direct or otherwise — which, if believed, required the conclusion that the wallet had been picked from the complaining witness’ pocket rather than dropped accidentally. In this connection I also think the court should not have remarked to the jury that its task was relatively simple;
(2) That in instructing on flight it should be made clear to the jury that there is no presumption but only that flight may be, but is not required to be, the basis for an inference indicating guilt. There is an important distinction the law draws between a presumption and the right of a jury to draw an inference ;
(3) That in the event of a new trial the appellant should be permitted to plead anew since the change in the plea made by the District Court was in appellant’s absence and without his knowledge or consent when made.
Judge BAZELON joins in noting that the dissenting opinion shows a misunderstanding of our decision. For example, we do not suggest that any juror was compelled to find that flight means guilt. And although Judge BAZELON and I file separate opinions our position on the grounds for reversal coincide.