When hearsay evidence is admitted under the res gestae doctrine, the trial judge must direct the jury that they must be satisfied the declarant did not concoct or distort the statement, was not activated by malice or ill will, and must draw the jury's attention to any special features bearing on the possibility of error. A general direction to 'weigh' the evidence without explaining the purpose of the exercise is insufficient. Where impermissible cross-examination about motive has occurred, a general direction on the burden of proof that is not linked to the motive issue will not cure the prejudice.
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