Vincent James A/K/A Victor James v. State

Defendant-Appellant, Vincent James, was convicted by jury of one count of felony murder in connection with the death of Gayle Taylor during a robbery. Ind. Code Ann. §§ 35-42-1-1(2) (West Supp. 1992) (felony murder) and 35-42-5-1 (West 1986) (robbery). Because the death penalty was sought, the jury was reconvened and, after hearing evidence and argument of counsel, recommended that the death penalty be imposed. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-50-2-9(b)(1)(G) (West Supp. 1992). In addition, the jury found James to be an habitual offender. Ind. Code Ann. § 35-50-2-8 (West Supp. 1992). The trial court entered a sentencing order which found that James should be executed. We address the following issues raised in this direct appeal: