Jenkins v. United States - 380 U.S. 445 (1965)

U.S. Supreme Court

Jenkins v. United States, 380 U.S. 445 (1965)

Jenkins v. United States

No. 761

Argued April 1,1965

Decided April 5, 1965

380 U.S. 445

Syllabus

After some deliberation on a two-count indictment, the jury sent a note to the trial judge advising that it was unable to arrive a a verdict "on both counts because of insufficient evidence." I n his response, the judge stated that the jury had to reach a decision. Thereafter, the petitioner was found guilty on one count.

Held: in its context and under all the circumstances of this case, the judge's statement had a coercive effect on the jury, and therefore the conviction must be reversed.

117 U.S.App.D.C. 346, 330 F. 2d 220, reversed and remanded.