Jansen v. State

The primary issue that must be addressed in this case is whether the evidence presented at trial justifies the conviction of Curtiss Jansen (Jansen) of first degree murder under the felony murder doctrine. The jury found Jansen guilty of first degree murder, and his main argument to this court is that the evidence does not suffice to implicate him in any felony associated with the death of the victim. Jansen also incorporates other claims of error including prejudicial jury instructions; the introduction of an involuntary confession; the denial of his motion for a bill of particulars; error in preventing counsel from participating in the voir dire examination of jurors so as to uncover bias; prejudicial conduct on the part of the trial judge; and denial of effective assistance of counsel. We have scrutinized the evidence in the light of our prior felony murder cases, particularly Bouwkamp v. State, 833 P.2d 486 (Wyo. 1992). We are satisfied the evidence is sufficient, and there was no other reversible error. The judgment and sentence of the trial court is affirmed.