Threats
Evidence that a defendant attempted to influence or intimidate a witness can serve as circumstantial evidence of guilt. Nguyen v. State, 273 Ga. 389 (2001). An attempt by a third person to influence a witness is relevant and may be introduced where it is established that the attempt was made with the authorization of the defendant or linked to the defendant. The judge can admit evidence of a threat to a witness that is connected to the defendant if the evidence is relevant to explain the witness' reluctance to testify. Williams v. State, 290 Ga. 533 (2012); Coleman v. State, 278 Ga. 486 (2004). But a threat not connected to the defendant is not admissible. Kell v. State, 280 Ga. 669 (2006).