Connecticut v. Devon D.
Summary: Devon D. was convicted of four counts sexual assault and three counts of risk of injury to a child upon allegations made by three of Devon D.âs biological children, C1, C2, and C3. He appealed his conviction on the grounds that the trial court had abused its discretion by having the three cases to be tried jointly and by permitting C1 to testify with a dog at her feet. The appellate court had accepted these arguments and reversed and remanded for a new trial, but the Supreme Court of Connecticut reversed the appellate court. The Connecticut Supreme Court concluded that âthe trial court properly exercised its discretion in permitting the cases to be tried together because the evidence in all three cases was cross admissible,â and reversed on that issue. As to the appellate courtâs determination that the trial court had abused its discretion in permitting a dog to sit near C1 during her testimony to provide comfort and support,â the Supreme Court also reversed, reinstating the verdict and judgment of the trial court.