State v. Gleaton

Syllabus

Kenneth R. Gleaton appeals his life sentence and convictions for murder, second degree arson, illegal possession of a firearm, and desecration of human remains. He claims numerous trial errors, including the circuit court's denial of his motion to bifurcate and the handling of certain evidentiary matters. Gleaton further challenges the circuit court's conduct of the trial, such as its refusal to recess late on a Friday afternoon before proceeding with closing arguments and the charge to the jury, as well as the court's failure to hold a proper sentencing proceeding to allow the presentation of mitigation evidence. Finally, Gleaton contends these cumulative errors require that he be granted a new trial. Although the circuit court erred in certain respects during this week-long trial, we find these errors harmless based on our review of the entire record. Thus, we affirm Gleaton's convictions and life sentence.