In February of last year, 22-year-old Danielle Packer was arrested and charged in the death of another motorist following a car crash that authorities believe was caused by Packer’s ‘huffing’ of dust cleaner in a Wal-Mart parking lot. Packer was charged with 18 counts, including involuntary manslaughter, third-degree murder, aggravated assault, and vehicular homicide while under the influence. The fatal accident occurred in August of 2012; Packer was convicted of third-degree murder and other charges in October of 2014.
Now, Packer is appealing her conviction and seeking a new trial. She was sentenced to 10 to 20 years in prison for the murder, which took the life of 25-year-old Matthew Snyder. Packer, who is a resident of Bellefonte, and her attorney claim that the judge in the case erred when the jury was allowed to hear person information about the victim and his wife. Packer believes the information prejudiced the jury. Her attorney also claims that critical evidence was withheld by the prosecution, evidence provided by a pathologist who said that Packer was not significantly intoxicated by the computer dusting spray following the crash.
The judge in the case has 120 days to make a decision on whether Packer may be retried in the case; if no decision is made by the end of the time limit, the motion is automatically denied. However, Packer and her attorney may still appeal to Pennsylvania Superior Court.
Successfully appealing a conviction is no easy feat, as all Michigan criminal appeals attorneys are aware. There must be compelling grounds to convince appeals court judges that a conviction should be overturned, or that the defendant should be given a second chance through a new trial.
If you intend to appeal a criminal conviction or sentence, it is critical to obtain the legal guidance and support of a highly experienced and capable Michigan criminal appeals lawyer who is skilled in the process, and dedicated to outstanding results.