William Michael Mason, Appellant v. the State of Texas, Appellee

Summary

The Court of Criminal Appeals of Texas affirmed the conviction and death sentence of William Michael Mason, holding that the evidence was sufficient to support the kidnapping element of capital murder, that the jury instruction on mitigating evidence met constitutional requirements, that evidence of the appellant's gang membership was admissible, and that the trial court properly exercised discretion in jury challenges. Justice Clinton dissented, arguing the kidnapping element was not proven and that the sentencing instruction was inadequate.