Relationship Evidence Domestic Abuse

cassiejohnson//December 18, 2015//

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Appellant challenged his conviction of felony domestic assault, arguing that the District Court abused its discretion in admitting evidence of his relationship with the victim and expert testimony regarding domestic abuse victims. The Court of Appeals noted that, where relevant to show a strained relationship, evidence of past abuse of or threats against the victim or her family by the defendant has generally been deemed admissible against challenges. It held that the District Court did not abuse its discretion in admitting evidence of appellant’s prior relationship with victim. Affirmed.

A15-0164 State v. Rowan (St. Louis County)