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This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

Young (D), Presnell, and Jackson wanted more liquor, so D suggested they go to Cooke's house, rob him, and kill him and take his money. Jackson and Presnell thought that D was just joking, but on the way over to Cooke's house, D suggested how they should perform their acts. Cooke let the trio in and said they wanted to buy liquor and when Cooke returned with a bottle, D pulled a knife and stabbed, Cooke. D then told Presnell to finish him, and Presnell then stabbed Cooke in the back five or six times. D then searched Cooke's pockets for money and divided that along with other valuables and a coin collection they found. When they left the house, Jackson placed the knife in a nearby snow bank. D was charged with first-degree murder, first-degree burglary, and robbery with a dangerous weapon. D offered no evidence at trial. D was found guilty on all counts. The sentencing phase was begun, and the jury was asked to determine three aggravating circumstances; was the murder committed while D was engaged in a robbery, was the murder committed for pecuniary gain, and if the murder was especially heinous, atrocious or cruel. The trial court also submitted to the jury that D was only 19 and any other circumstances of mitigating value. D was sentenced to death. D appealed.

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