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Evidence Keyed to Park
Michelson v. United States
Citation:
335 U.S. 469, 69 S.Ct. 213, 93 L.Ed. 168Facts
In 1947 petitioner Michelson was convicted of bribing a federal revenue agent. The Government proved a large payment by accused to the agent for the purpose of influencing his official action. The defendant, as a witness on his own behalf, admitted passing the money but claimed it was done in response to the agent’s demands, threats and inducements. On direct examination of defendant, his own counsel brought out that, in 1927, he had been convicted of a misdemeanor having to do with trading in counterfeit watch dials. On cross-examination in 1930, he answered “no” to the question whether he had been arrested or summoned for any offense. Defendant called five witnesses to prove that he enjoyed a good reputation. On cross-examination, four of the witnesses were asked several questions regarding the defendant’s character. Defendant-petitioner complained that the prosecution may not cross-examine his character witnesses.
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