When Not to Consult a Higher Authority

On Monday, the Colorado Supreme Court narrowly reversed a convicted killer's death sentence because several jury members consulted a Bible during deliberations. It's axiomatic that jurors are to consider only the evidence introduced in court, not outside sources. However, one juror brought a Bible, along with selected relevant quotes, into the jury room and discussed them with other jurors. The quotes were the traditional "eye for an eye" concept from Leviticus and, more importantly (IMHO), a blurb from Romans commanding the faithful to obey "civil authority." The civil authority in this case was, of course, the State of Colorado, which was asking for death. To "obey" that wish without evaluating the evidence would be a complete dereliction of a juror's duty.

You can access the court's decision here.