United States v. Anderson Jeff Goliday, United States of America v. Julia Ann Lacefield

Goliday and Lacefield were jointly tried and convicted, under two counts of an indictment charging them with conspiracy to import heroin ( 21 U.S.C. § 963 ) and importing heroin ( 21 U.S.C. §§ 952 , 960 and 963). Each appeals.

In No. 72-1446, Lacefield argues that the evidence is insufficient to sustain the verdict. We have examined it carefully, and we agree.

In No. 72-1445, Goliday makes the same argument. In his case, however, we find the evidence sufficient.

Goliday argues that he was improperly cross-examined by Lacefield’s counsel about his prior convictions. The cross-examination was proper.

Goliday’s most serious contention is that misconduct of a juror requires a reversal. After the case had been submitted to the jury, the members were permitted to separate for the weekend. When they reassembled, one juror revealed that she had discussed the case at home. This was later reported to the trial judge, who held a hearing to determine what had happened. The government produced a number of jurors to testify. The juror in question testified that all that she did was put one hypothetical question to her son. The other jurors were very vague about what their fellow juror told…