Branche v. Freeman

arising under Louisiana law; three statutory aggravating circumstances found; Supreme Court of Louisiana reviews the sufficiency of the evidence with respect to only one; procedure held not to violate Eighth Amendment | in former inmate's civil rights action alleging beating by prison officials, plaintiff could recover for substantive due process, as opposed to Eighth Amendment, violation | victim received thirteen stab wounds and died slowly "with awareness of her impending death" | victim received thirteen stab wounds and died slowly "with awareness of her impending death"