Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter for “Stopping” Thief

Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter for “Stopping” Thief

Sep 26, 2024 | Michigan Court of Appeals

Charge with involuntary manslaughter for stopping thief.

PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN

V.

HASSAN WALID AIYASH

Case Summary:

This case revolves around a gas station attendant who was charged with involuntary manslaughter after a patron was fatally shot inside the store. The attendant remotely locked the store’s door after the patron attempted to leave without paying. The patron became agitated and shot three people, killing one.

Short Background

Samuel McCray went into a Detroit gas station around three o’clock in the morning on May 6, 2023, and tried to buy about four dollars’ worth of snacks and beverages.

Defendant was working as the gas-station attendant at the time. After McCray’s card was declined, McCray threatened to kill defendant and tried to leave with the unpaid-for merchandise.

Defendant stopped McCray by remotely locking the gas station’s only door, trapping McCray and three other patrons inside the gas-station store.

Standing behind bulletproof glass, defendant mocked McCray while the other three patrons pleaded with defendant to unlock the door.

Defendant initially refused, allowing the situation in the store to escalate for several minutes before finally unlocking the door.

But by that time, it was too late—McCray believed that one of the other patrons, Gregory Kelly, had insulted him, so McCray took out a gun and shot Kelly nine times, killing him.

McCray shot another patron, David Langston, three times, and the third patron, Anthony Bowden, three or four times.

On these facts, the prosecution seeks to hold defendant criminally liable for Kelly’s death under a theory of involuntary manslaughter.

The district court bound defendant over on the charge, and the circuit court affirmed.

Full story link and court opinion at end of this article.

Legal Issue:

The primary legal question is whether the attendant’s actions were the proximate cause of the death. Proximate cause requires a reasonably foreseeable link between the defendant’s actions and the harm.

Prosecution’s Argument:

The prosecution argued that the attendant’s actions escalated the situation and led to the shooting, making him liable. The lower court agreed.

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Court of Appeals’ Ruling:

The Michigan Court of Appeals reversed, finding that the patron’s intentional actions were not reasonably foreseeable. The court noted that the attendant had no prior knowledge of the patron’s dangerousness.

Comparison to People v. Crumbley:

The court contrasted this case with People v. Crumbley, where parents were held liable for their son’s school shooting because they knew of his mental health issues and gave him access to a gun.

Importance of the Case:

This case highlights the strict standards for proximate cause in criminal cases, particularly involving third-party actions. It emphasizes that mere escalation of a situation does not automatically lead to criminal liability for unforeseeable violence. The decision also illustrates the court’s caution in expanding criminal liability for third-party actions.

Read full detailed story and court opinion here

Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter for Stopping Thief 20240925_C369689_31_369689.opn.CAO

Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

Note: This article provides a general overview and does not substitute for legal advice. Anyone charged with a crime should consult an attorney for specific legal guidance.

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Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in Michigan

Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in Michigan

Sep 25, 2024 | Drugs, Michigan Laws

Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in Michigan

In Michigan, being caught with illegal drugs can lead to serious consequences. The state has strict laws on drug possession, and unlawful possession of a controlled substance is one of the most common charges.

Here, we’ll break down what the law says, the punishments, and possible defenses.

#1 Step to take – Invoke your 5th amendment right and ask for a lawyer. No matter what the police say or what they promise you!!

What Is Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance?

Under Michigan law, possession of a controlled substance means having drugs or narcotics that are illegal without a valid prescription. These substances can include illegal street drugs like heroin, meth, cocaine, or even prescription drugs like Oxycodone or Xanax if you don’t have a prescription.

Michigan categorizes controlled substances into different “schedules” based on how dangerous or addictive they are. The more dangerous the drug, the harsher the penalties. For example, Schedule I drugs, like heroin, are seen as highly addictive and have no accepted medical use, while Schedule II drugs, like certain pain medications, can be prescribed by a doctor but still carry serious penalties if abused.

The law governing unlawful possession of controlled substances can be found in MCL 333.7403. This section outlines which substances are illegal and what happens if you’re found in possession of them.

Penalties for Unlawful Possession

The punishment for possessing a controlled substance depends on several factors:

What drug you had, how much you had, and your prior criminal record.
 

  • Schedule I or II Narcotics (like heroin or cocaine): If caught with less than 25 grams, you could face up to 4 years in prison and/or fines of up to $25,000.
  • 25 to 50 grams: Up to 4 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000.
  • 50 to 450 grams: Up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.
  • More than 1,000 grams: Life in prison and a fine of $1,000,000.

For Schedule III or IV drugs (like prescription medications without a prescription), you may face up to 2 years in prison and/or fines up to $2,000.

You can find the penalties for different types of drugs under MCL 333.7401. 

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Possible Legal Defenses

If you’re charged with unlawful possession, there are legal defenses that could help your case. Some of the most common include:
 

  • Lack of Possession: You may argue that the drugs weren’t yours or that you didn’t have control over the drugs.
  • Illegal Search and Seizure: If the police conducted an unlawful search of your property (for example, searching your home without a valid warrant), evidence collected during that search could be thrown out.
  • Medical Necessity: If you had the drugs for a legitimate medical purpose but didn’t have the prescription with you, that could be a defense.
  • Entrapment: If you were tricked or pressured into possessing the drugs by law enforcement, you may have an entrapment defense.
Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

How Komorn Law Can Help

If you’ve been charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, it’s crucial to have an experienced legal team by your side. Komorn Law has over 30 years of experience defending clients in both state and federal courts. They specialize in complex criminal defense cases and have a deep understanding of Michigan drug laws.

Komorn Law can help you:

  • Evaluate the evidence against you
  • Challenge the legality of the search or arrest
  • Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges
  • Fight for your rights in court

Their expertise in drug cases, coupled with their knowledge of search and seizure laws, can make all the difference in getting charges dismissed or reduced.

If you’re facing charges for unlawful possession of a controlled substance in Michigan, call Komorn Law (248) 357-2550 for a free evaluation today.

Note: This article provides a general overview and does not substitute for legal advice. Anyone charged with a crime should consult an attorney for specific legal guidance.

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Childless Divorce in Michigan

Childless Divorce in Michigan

Sep 23, 2024 | Divorce

Childless Divorce in Michigan Property Disputes and False Accusations

Divorce can be a challenging process, especially when there are significant disagreements over property and accusations flying between the parties.

In Michigan, even childless divorces can involve lengthy disputes, particularly when it comes to dividing assets and addressing claims of misconduct.

Property Disputes in a Childless Divorce

In Michigan, the division of property during a divorce follows the principle of equitable distribution.

This means that property will be divided “fairly”, though not necessarily equally.

The court will consider factors such as the length of the marriage, contributions of both spouses, and any financial or non-financial misconduct.

Equitable distribution aims to create a fair division of assets based on the circumstances of each case, rather than dividing everything down the middle.

Factors that may be considered include:

  • Assets, income, and earning potential of each spouse
  • Financial contributions to the marriage
  • Length of the marriage
  • Future employability and earning power
  • Spending and saving habits
  • Age and health of each party

Most U.S. states use equitable distribution rules when a couple divorces and can’t reach a marital settlement agreement on their own.

Remember that whe you vote.

According to MCL 552.19, the court has authority to divide marital property, which includes any assets acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title.

Marital property can include homes, cars, retirement accounts, investments, and other financial assets.

However, there is often a dispute over what constitutes “marital” versus “separate” property.

Separate property, like assets owned before the marriage or gifts and inheritances, may not be subject to division. But that does not mean you don’t have to fight for them.

Disagreements often arise when one spouse believes they contributed more to acquiring or maintaining certain assets, while the other might argue that they deserve a larger share for non-financial reasons.

For instance, one spouse might feel entitled to a bigger portion of the marital home, especially if they believe they took care of household duties while the other spouse worked.

These disagreements can become intense, and without children to consider, disputes over property tend to take center stage.

False Accusations: A Serious Complication

Another common issue in divorce proceedings is the use of false accusations. While Michigan is a no-fault divorce state under MCL 552.6, meaning a couple does not need to prove wrongdoing to get a divorce, accusations of fault can still arise.

One spouse may falsely accuse the other of infidelity, financial mismanagement, or even abuse in an attempt to gain leverage during property division.

Although these claims are often unrelated to the legal grounds for divorce, they can influence how a judge views the credibility of each spouse and affect the final outcome.

Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

For example, if one spouse accuses the other of hiding assets or lying about their finances, the court might order a thorough investigation. These accusations can delay the process, increase legal costs, and create further tension between the parties. Worse, false accusations can damage reputations and even lead to criminal investigations, especially if the claims involve violence or fraud.

How Komorn Law Can Help

Navigating a divorce with property disputes and false accusations requires experienced legal guidance.

Komorn Law specializes in taking on difficult divorce cases, particularly when false accusations and complex asset division are involved.

From gathering evidence, debunking false claims, and presentig a clear case to protect your rights and assets.

Komorn Law can help ensure that property is divided equitably and that false accusations do not unfairly influence the court’s decision.

They understand the emotional and financial toll of a contentious divorce and are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for their clients.

Conclusion

Divorce without children may appear straightforward at first glance, yet conflicts over assets and unfounded allegations can complicate the situation significantly. Michigan’s divorce laws offer a structure for addressing these challenges, but the distinct nature of each case underscores the necessity for skilled legal guidance.

At Komorn Law, we are committed to confronting these challenges with determination, advocating fiercely to safeguard your rights and secure the most favorable outcome for you. When navigating the complexities of a difficult divorce, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can significantly influence the results of your case.

Note: This article provides a general overview and does not substitute for legal advice. Anyone charged with a CSC offense should consult an attorney for specific legal guidance.

Divorce in Michigan

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Do the passengers in your vehicle have 4th Amendment Rights?

Do the passengers in your vehicle have 4th Amendment Rights?

Sep 20, 2024 | Know Your Rights, Your Rights

Do Passengers in your vehicle have 4th Amendment Rights against Search and Seizure?

Passengers in a vehicle are afforded Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, though the scope of these rights varies based on the specific circumstances surrounding the stop and search.

The Fourth Amendment protects all individuals, including passengers, from unlawful government intrusions.

However, the scope of this protection can vary, especially in the context of vehicle stops and searches.

Fourth Amendment Rights of Passengers

The U.S. Supreme Court has clarified the rights of passengers in several key cases. In Brendlin v. California (2007), the Court ruled that passengers, like drivers, are “seized” during a traffic stop and therefore have the right to challenge the legality of the stop. This means that if the stop is found to be unlawful, any evidence obtained as a result may be suppressed, even if it was found on a passenger.

However, the right to challenge the stop does not necessarily extend to a right to challenge the search of the vehicle. In Rakas v. Illinois (1978), the Supreme Court held that passengers do not have a legitimate expectation of privacy in a vehicle they do not own or control. Therefore, while a passenger can challenge the stop itself, they cannot generally challenge the search of the vehicle unless they have a personal privacy interest in the area searched, such as in their personal belongings.

Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

Michigan Law and Passenger Rights

Under Michigan law, as per the Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL), the rights of passengers align with federal standards. For instance, MCL 257.742 outlines the procedure for stopping vehicles and the obligations of drivers and passengers during traffic stops. While the law primarily addresses the driver’s responsibilities, passengers are also protected under the broader umbrella of the Fourth Amendment.

However, Michigan courts, following federal precedent, generally hold that passengers cannot challenge the search of a vehicle unless they can demonstrate a personal privacy interest in the area searched. For example, if a passenger’s personal bag or purse is searched, they may have standing to challenge that search.

Consent and Plain View Doctrine

If a driver consents to a search, that consent typically extends to the entire vehicle, including areas where passengers’ belongings may be stored. However, the scope of the consented search must be reasonable. Similarly, under the plain view doctrine, if an officer lawfully stops a vehicle and observes illegal items in plain view, those items can be seized without violating Fourth Amendment rights, regardless of whether they belong to the driver or a passenger.

Conclusion

Passengers in a vehicle do have Fourth Amendment rights, particularly concerning the legality of the traffic stop. However, their ability to challenge the search of the vehicle is limited unless they can show a personal privacy interest in the area searched. The balance between individual rights and law enforcement authority continues to be shaped by court rulings, both at the federal and state levels. Understanding these nuances is essential for recognizing the protections afforded to passengers under the Fourth Amendment.

Legal Counsel and Your Rights

When facing legal challenges, particularly in criminal cases, it is advisable to seek legal counsel immediately.

An experienced attorney can provide guidance on how to navigate interactions with law enforcement while safeguarding your constitutional rights.

Since 1993 our expert legal defense in navigating criminal law matters and protecting your constitutional rights are what we eat for breakfast everyday.

Contact Komorn Law PLLC if you’re ready to fight and win.

Research us and then call us.

Tap to Call Komorn Law Now

Do you know what to do if you are pulled over by a police officer?

Below is some information that can help to make a traffic stop less stressful and safer for everyone.

  • First, when you notice emergency lights behind you, pull over to the right side of the road as soon as it’s safe to do so. Keep calm and try to remain still. Stay in your vehicle, open the driver’s side window and keep your hands in sight on the steering wheel.
  • When the officer asks, provide your driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance. At this point in the traffic stop, the officer should tell you why you were stopped. If he or she doesn’t, it’s okay to inquire about the reason for the stop once you have provided your driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance. When addressing the officer, speak with the same level of respect you expect from him or her.
  • If the officer issues you a citation, don’t argue the reason for it during the traffic stop. The best and most appropriate place to dispute a citation is in court.
  • When the officer tells you it’s okay to leave, make sure your seat belt is buckled and that it’s safe to enter the roadway before pulling out. As you get back on the road, follow all traffic laws, including using your turn signal. The officer will likely remain on the side of the road, with lights activated, until you have safely re-entered traffic.

If you feel the officer acted inappropriately or didn’t treat you fairly, it’s okay to follow up with a phone call to his or her supervisor.

Source: Michigan Government

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Obstruction and Resisting Arrest in Michigan

Obstruction and Resisting Arrest in Michigan

Sep 18, 2024 | Resisting and Obstructing

Stop resisting!

Defending against resisting and obstruction arrest in Michigan is a serious matter and requires a well-prepared legal strategy.

These are bonus charges you get if you don’t comply like a limp biscuit. They will stay on your record and everytime you have a police encouter it will be at a heightened level putting you at risk.

Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

The first and most important step is to immediately seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

A lawyer who specializes in resisting and obstructing cases will know how to navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect your rights, and build a strong defense.

They will also help you avoid making mistakes that could hurt your case.

Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

Levels of Obstruction and Resisting Arrest in Michigan

In Michigan, the law deals with obstruction and resisting arrest through a range of actions that can interfere with a law enforcement officer’s duties. These actions are illegal and are taken seriously by the courts. Michigan law outlines several levels of offenses for obstruction and resisting arrest, depending on the severity of the act and the resulting consequences.

Resisting and Obstructing Officers

Michigan law, specifically Michigan Compiled Law (MCL) 750.81d, makes it a crime to obstruct, resist, or assault a police officer while they are carrying out their duties.

This law applies not only to police officers but also to firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and other authorized officials.

Resisting involves refusing to comply with lawful orders, such as resisting an arrest.

Obstruction, on the other hand, refers to actions that make it difficult or impossible for an officer to perform their duties, like lying to police, refusing to move when asked, or hiding evidence.

If you are found guilty of resisting or obstructing, you can face a felony charge. The penalties for this crime depend on the circumstances: 

 

  • Basic offense: If there is no injury to the officer, the crime is punishable by up to 2 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
  • Injury to an officer: If the officer is injured during the act of resisting or obstructing, the penalty increases to a maximum of 4 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
  • Serious injury to an officer: If the officer suffers a serious bodily injury, the punishment increases to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
  • Death of an officer: If the officer dies as a result of the obstruction or resistance, the offender can face up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $20,000.

Passive vs. Active Resistance

There is a distinction between passive resistance and active resistance. Passive resistance is often seen in peaceful protests, where someone might sit or stand in a location without fighting back. While still illegal, passive resistance typically results in lower penalties than active resistance, which involves physical struggle or fleeing from an officer.

Obstructing Justice

Obstructing justice is broader than just resisting arrest. According to MCL 750.478a, this charge can include things like:

  • Hiding a suspect from police
  • Destroying or tampering with evidence
  • Providing false information to law enforcement

These actions are considered felonies, and penalties can be severe depending on the level of obstruction.

Legal Counsel and Your Rights

When facing legal challenges, particularly in criminal cases, it is advisable to seek legal counsel immediately.

An experienced attorney can provide guidance on how to navigate interactions with law enforcement while safeguarding your constitutional rights.

Since 1993 our expert legal defense in navigating criminal law matters and protecting your constitutional rights are what we eat for breakfast everyday.

Contact Komorn Law PLLC if you’re ready to fight and win.

Research us and then call us.

Tap to Call Komorn Law Now

Legal Defenses

If someone is charged with resisting or obstructing an officer, they may have some legal defenses available. These can include:

 

  • Self-defense: If the officer used excessive force, the person may argue they were defending themselves.
  • Unlawful arrest: If the arrest itself was illegal, the charge of resisting arrest might not hold up in court.
  • Misunderstanding: In some cases, a person might argue that they did not understand the officer’s commands.

Conclusion

Resisting arrest and obstructing officers in Michigan whether the resistance is passive or active, it is important to understand that interfering with law enforcement can lead to felony charges and significant penalties.

For more details, you can refer to the Michigan Compiled Laws:

Understanding these laws can help prevent situations that might lead to arrest or additional charges.

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