State v. Sibley

Sibley (defendant) was accused of raping his stepdaughter, Lula Hawkins, when she was between twelve and thirteen years old, resulting in her pregnancy and the delivery of a stillborn child. At trial, Sibley testified and denied having sexual relations with Hawkins or fathering her child; the prosecution then called witnesses, over Sibley's objection, to testify that he lacked a good reputation for chastity and virtue. Sibley was convicted and sentenced to two years in prison, and he appealed the admission of that impeachment testimony.