Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District / Jul 29, 2025
Justin Bonds, Appellant, vs. State of Missouri, Respondent.
Justin Bonds appealed the motion court's denial of his Rule 29.15 motion for post-conviction relief, arguing his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to call a material witness, C.T., at his rape trial. Bonds claimed C.T.'s testimony would have provided a viable defense and led to his acquittal. The appellate court affirmed the motion court's judgment, holding that counsel's decision not to call C.T. was reasonable trial strategy and Bonds failed to demonstrate prejudice.