Shocking Court Case in 1965
California V. Stewart
Case Summary
In the course of investigating a series of robberies in which on victim died of injuries, Stewart was identified as the endorser of checks that were stolen in one of the robberies. Stewart was arrested at his home. Police also arrested Stewart's wife and three other people who were visiting him. Stewart was interrogated nine different times within five days. During the last interrogation session, Stewart did admit that he had robbed the deceased, but didn't mean to harm her. Then, police released the four other people that were arrested with Stewart because there was no supporting evidence that would connect them to to the crime. When Stewart went to trial, his statements were introduced and he was convicted of robbery and first-degree murder and sentenced to death. The Supreme Court of California reversed, holding that Stewart should have been advised of his right to remain silent and his right to counsel.
The interrogation
Stewart was interrogated nine different times within five days. During the last interrogation session, Stewart did admit that he had robbed the deceased, but didn't mean to harm her.
The Conviction
Stewart was convicted of robbery and first-degree murder and sentenced to death.
The Trial
The Supreme Court of California reversed, holding that Stewart should have been advised of his right to remain silent and his right to counsel.