This educational guide is based on the linked primary sources. It is not a Court publication, is not affiliated with the Court, and is not legal advice.
In brief
Overview
According to Petitioner, the petitioner alleges that the prosecution suppressed all evidence concerning whether the defendant was a drug addict and committed the crimes during an amphetamine psychosis.
The Court’s oral argument included several questions about the Brady claim and evidence suppression.
Background and question before the Court
Chief Justice Roberts asked whether there was discussion of the Brady claim on the merits, suggesting the district court’s handling might have been erroneous.
What each side argues
Petitioner (Gary Bradford Cone)
According to Mr. Goldstein, the petitioner contends that the prosecution deliberately suppressed evidence, which is central to the case.
The petitioner argues that the suppressed evidence is material to determining the defendant’s mental state and culpability.
Respondent (Ricky Bell, Warden)
Source-limited. The record does not yet support a complete account.
What happened at oral argument
Oral argument began at 11:08 a.m.
The case was submitted after argument.
Chief Justice Roberts asked whether there was discussion of the Brady claim on the merits and whether the appellate court treated the categories separately.
Justice Stevens asked whether the evidence was deliberately or negligently suppressed.
Justice Souter asked whether the evidence was favorable to the defendant.
Justice Alito asked about procedural default and prior rulings of the state court.
Justice Scalia asked what the photographic evidence was.
- [1] c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdf, p. 1
- [2] c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdf, p. 58
- [3] c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdf, pp. 21–56
- [4] c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdf, p. 27
- [5] c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdf, p. 38
- [6] c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdf, p. 42
- [7] c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdf, p. 57
What the Court decided
Why it matters
Terms to know
No glossary terms are available for this guide.
Primary sources
Read the source materials on the official site or open the immutable repository copy used for this guide.
- c336737f8fa67b399fa7-r1-aa3ebe7fb3b90e4a.pdforal argument transcript
Guide generated September 22, 2026. Automated validation accepted this version.