Hamilton v. Hood
Patrick Hamilton, a pro se petitioner, sought a writ of habeas corpus under 28 U.S.C. § 2254, challenging his 1984 Orange County conviction for criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance. Magistrate Judge Sharon E. Grubin recommended denial of the petition, and District Judge Sprizzo adopted this recommendation, dismissing the petition. Hamilton's claims included defective temporary assignment of the Family Court judge who presided over his trial, an excessive sentence, and ineffective assistance of both trial and appellate counsel. The court found most claims procedurally barred due to Hamilton's failure to raise them in state courts or due to a lack of merit. Specifically, the court addressed and rejected the conflict of interest claims against counsel and affirmed the legality of the informant's evidence and the appropriate use of a de facto judge, stating that Hamilton's rights were not violated. The petition was ultimately dismissed.