State of Iowa v. Alison Elaine Dorsey

Alison Dorsey seeks further review of the court of appeals decision that affirmed her convictions for second-degree murder and child endangerment causing death. Dorsey argues that the change of venue from Cass County to Pottawattamie County was improper, substantial evidence did not support the verdict, evidence of the victim’s sibling’s rib injury was improperly admitted, she was unfairly deprived of her right to call additional character witnesses regarding certain traits, and the court erred in denying her motion for a new trial.

Holding: The defendant appeals her convictions for second-degree murder and child endangerment resulting in death following the district court’s order changing venue out of Cass County after her first trial ended in a hung jury. Decision of Court of Appeals Affirmed in Part and Vacated in Part; District Court Judgment Reversed and Case Remanded.