Johns v. State

Citations

• 46 Fla. 153

Syllabus

<p>1. Verdicts in criminal 'cases should be certain, and impart a definite meaning, free from ambiguity. Any words that convey beyond a reasonable doubt the meaning and intention of the jury are sufficient, and all fair intendments should be made to sustain them. If the intention is clearly manifested, bad spelling or faulty grammar will not vitiate the verdict. The rule of idem sonans is applicable in construing verdicts.</p> <p>2. Where part of a witness’ answer to a question is admissible and part inadmissible, a motion to strike such answer is properly refused unless it is confined specifically to the inadmissible part of such answer.</p> <p>3. It is competent for the State, in a prosecution for murder, to prove threats made by the accused against the deceased, although made a long time prior to the homicide, but in determining their weight the jury may consider their remoteness from the time of homicide.</p> <p>4. Evidence examined, and found sufficient to sustain the verdict.</p>