Larry H. Dunn v. Cathy Jess, 7th Circuit Court of Appeals No. 20-1168 (Nov. 24, 2020) Dunn was charged with felony murder and other offenses based on the fact he had struck the victim, who was later found dead from a head injury. In a rare case that clears the high hurdles of both AEDPA… Read more
2. Causation
State v. Reginald Scott Williams, 2011AP1379-CR, District 1, 9/18/12 court of appeals decision (not recommended for publication); case activity Williams drove at an excessive speed (30+ over the limit), and crashed into another car, resulting in death and serious injuries. He pleaded no contest to one count of homicide by negligent use, § 940.10 and… Read more
State v. Michael D. Below, 2011 WI App 64 (recommended for publication); for Below: Joseph L. Sommers; case activity Below indisputably caused massive injuries that resulted in the victim’s death, albeit after medical staff terminated life support. His reckless acts were therefore a “substantial factor” in, hence caused, her death. He was not entitled to… Read more
State v. Waylon Picotte, 2003 WI 42, on certification For Picotte: John T. Wasielewski Issue: Whether conviction for homicide is barred because the victim did not die within a year and a day of infliction of the fatal injuries. Holding: ¶5. We disagree with the circuit court and hold that the defendant’s conviction in this case is… Read more
State v. Earl L. Miller, 231 Wis.2d 447, 605 N.W.2d 567 (Ct. App. 1999) For Miller: Eduardo M. Borda Issue: Whether an act may satisfy the “substantial factor” test for causation element if it merely plays a prominent rather than lone role in the proscribed result. Holding: Causation is satisfied by any significant, not necessarily… Read more
