Drunken testimony leads to overturned conviction in Arizona
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — A judge has dismissed the conviction against a man found guilty of aggravated assault after prosecutors did not inform the court the man was drunk during his testimony.
The Arizona Daily Sun reports that legal defender Lindsay Smith filed a motion Thursday demanding a retrial or conviction dismissal claiming the prosecutor allowed perjury.
Officials say Luis Alvin blew a .226% blood alcohol concentration in a breathalyzer test before testifying during the Oct. 10 trial.
Bailiff Eli Navarro testified that he conducted the test and informed prosecutors of results.
Officials say Alvin denied having consumed alcohol when questioned in front of the jury.
Smith says actions by prosecutor Paul Rubin impacted Alvin’s right to a fair trial.
Coconino County prosecutors say there is no quarrel with the final ruling.