Alford v. United States

282 U.S. 687 (1931)

Facts

Alford (D) was charged with several violations of mail fraud under 18 U.S.C. Section 338. During the trial, a former employee of D was called as a witness. Damaging testimony was elicited, and D on cross-examination wanted to show that the witness was currently in the custody of the federal authorities. That opportunity was denied. D was convicted and appealed.