Answer:
In the case of Walter McMillian's trial, the judge overturned the jury's decision to sentence McMillan to life and put him on death row. This decision by the judge was based on the evidence presented during the trial and the judge's interpretation of the law.
Regarding the question of whether judges should be allowed to overturn decisions made by a jury of peers, it is important to note that judges have the authority to do so in certain circumstances. For example, if the judge determines that the verdict is not supported by the evidence presented in the trial, or if the judge believes that the jury made an error in interpreting the law, the judge may overturn the verdict or modify the sentence.
However, it is also important to consider the role of juries in the legal system. Juries are meant to represent a cross-section of the community and provide a check on the power of the government and the judiciary. Juries are also responsible for determining the guilt or innocence of defendants and the appropriate sentence in criminal cases.
Therefore, while judges may have the authority to overturn jury decisions in certain circumstances, it is important to ensure that the rights of defendants to a fair trial and a trial by a jury of their peers are protected.