Koehler v. Engle (1983)
- Docket
- 83-1
- Decided
- 1983-01-01
Summary
Question: Did the jury instructions on malice and intent create an improper presumption of guilt in Engle's trial for first-degree murder? If so, was this a harmless error? Conclusion: Yes and no. In a per curiam opinion delivered by an equally divided Court, the Supreme Court affirmed the Sixth Circuit's judgment without further comment. Justice Marshall took no part in the decision of the case.