Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District / May 3, 2022
John J. Sullivan vs. State of Missouri
John J. Sullivan appealed the denial of his Rule 29.15 motion, which alleged the trial court in his underlying criminal case failed to adequately determine if his waiver of counsel was knowing and voluntary. Sullivan, appearing pro se, failed to provide a complete record on appeal, specifically omitting transcripts from the underlying jury trial and the evidentiary hearing on his Rule 29.15 motion. The appellate court dismissed the appeal, holding that it could not conduct a meaningful review without the necessary transcripts.