Section 23.14 Motive

• Library: Criminal Practice 2012 Supp

2. (§23.14) Motive

Motive is relevant as circumstantial evidence of guilt. State v. Snider, 869 S.W.2d 188, 193–94 (Mo. App. E.D. 1993). When the defendant maintains innocence, evidence of motive or absence of motive is relevant. State v. Hill, 866 S.W.2d 160, 163–64 (Mo. App. S.D. 1993). Trial courts have great latitude in admitting evidence as to the defendant’s motive. State v. Blackman, 875 S.W.2d 122, 139–140 (Mo. App. E.D. 1994); State v. Ottwell, 852 S.W.2d 370, 373 (Mo. App. E.D. 1993). Thus, the state can develop motive even though it involves evidence of other crimes. Id.; State v. Mallett, 732 S.W.2d 527, 534 (Mo. banc 1987), cert. denied, 484 U.S. 933 (1987). Evidence of motive has been allowed to discredit a claim of...