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Date: 10-11-2019
Case Style:
STATE OF OHIO vs. DENNIS WAYNE LECHNER
Case Number: 19CA3
Judge: Jason P. Smith
Court: COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO FOURTH APPELLATE DISTRICT HIGHLAND COUNTY
Plaintiff's Attorney: Anneka P. Collins, Highland County Prosecutor
Defendant's Attorney:
Description:
Call 888-354-4529 if you need a Criminal Defense Attorney in Ohio.
Appellant was charged with one count of felonious assault in violation
of R.C. 2903.11 on August 25, 2017. The charge stemmed from an incident that
occurred on August 17, 2017, at the residence of Lisa Garcia, Appellant’s sister
and victim herein. The affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint alleged
Garcia and her brother, Neil Hurt, got into a physical altercation when Garcia
ordered Hurt and his girlfriend to leave her property. Immediately thereafter, when
Garcia was having a conversation with her mother and daughter regarding the fact
that Hurt and his girlfriend needed to leave her property, Garcia’s other brother,
Appellant, started yelling at her. The affidavit alleges that when Garcia ordered
Appellant to leave and not return, Appellant struck her on the left side of her face.
Garcia called the police and was taken to Highland District Hospital. She was
thereafter transferred to Miami Valley Hospital for further treatment. The affidavit
further alleged Garcia sustained a closed orbital fracture and closed maxillary sinus
fracture.
{¶3} Appellant was not arrested on the charge until November 29, 2017. On
December 12, 2017, Appellant filed a waiver of speedy trial time and also filed a
motion to determine whether he was competent to stand trial. Appellant was
Highland App. No. 19CA3 3
thereafter evaluated and determined incompetent to stand trial on January 10, 2018.
The matter was placed on the inactive docket and Appellant was institutionalized
for treatment until May 1, 2018, when all parties stipulated that he had been
returned to competency. Appellant thereafter waived his right to a preliminary
hearing and the matter was bound over to the grand jury.
{¶4} On June 5, 2018, Appellant was indicted on one count of felonious
assault, a second-degree felony in violation of R.C. 2903.11(A)(1). He pled not
guilty to the charge and the matter proceeded through the discovery process. Then,
on July 19, 2018, Appellant’s trial counsel requested a second competency
evaluation. The trial court scheduled an evaluation and again placed the matter on
the inactive docket. A competency hearing was held on August 24, 2018, at which
time the trial court determined Appellant was both competent at the time he
committed the offense and was competent to stand trial. Shortly thereafter, on
September 20, 2018, Appellant filed a motion to dismiss based upon speedy trial
grounds. The trial court denied Appellant’s motion on October 31, 2018, and the
matter proceeded to a jury trial on December 13, 2018.
{¶5} The victim, Lisa Garcia, and her daughter, Makenzie Beckelheimer,
both testified on behalf of the State. Garcia testified that Appellant hit her on the
left side of her face with a closed fist, causing her nose, eye and mouth to bleed.
Garcia also identified several medical records and photographs depicting her
Highland App. No. 19CA3 4
injuries that were entered into evidence. She testified that she did not hit Appellant
first or put her hands on him at all. She further testified that she still suffers from
pain and headaches as a result of her injuries. Makenzie Beckelheimer testified
she was present when her mother was assaulted by Appellant. She testified that
Appellant punched her mother in the face. Melanie Nuse, a nurse practitioner with
Miami Valley Emergency Specialists, also testified regarding Garcia’s injuries and
explained that the injuries suffered by Garcia are commonly suffered by someone
who has been hit in the face.
{¶6} Appellant testified on his own behalf and claimed that Garcia pulled a
gun on him, leading him to throw his hand back and causing the gun to hit her in
the face. He denied striking Garcia. In response, the State called Garcia and
Beckelheimer as rebuttal witnesses. Both denied Appellant’s version of events and
testified that Garcia did not have a gun at the time of the incident.
{¶7} The matter was submitted to the jury for deliberation and the jury
instructions included an instruction on self-defense. The jury ultimately found
Appellant guilty as charged. The trial court sentenced Appellant to a seven-year
prison term. It is from the trial court’s final judgment entry of confinement that
Appellant now brings his timely appeal, setting forth six assignments of error for
our review.
Highland App. No. 19CA3 5
ASSIGNMENTS OF ERROR
I. “LECHNER’S SPEEDY TRIAL RIGHTS WERE VIOLATED IN CONTRAVENTION OF THE SIXTH AMENDMENT TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION.”
II. “THE TRIAL COURT ERRED IN FINDING THAT LECHNER WAS COMPETENT TO STAND TRIAL, IN VIOLATION OF THIS [SIC] DUE PROCESS RIGHTS UNDER THE FIFTH AND FOURTEENTH AMENDMENTS TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION.”
III. “THE TRIAL COURT IMPROPERLY REQUIRED LECHNER TO PROVE SELF-DEFENSE, IN VIOLATION OF THE SECOND, FIFTH AND FOURTEENTH AMENDMENTS TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION.”
IV. “LECHNER’S CONVICTION IS BASED ON INSUFFICIENT EVIDENCE, IN VIOLATION OF THE DUE PROCESS CLAUSE OF THE FIFTH AND FOURTEENTH AMENDMENTS TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION AND SECTIONS 10 & 16, ARTICLE I OF THE OHIO CONSTITUTION.”
V. “LECHNER’S CONVICTION IS AGAINST THE MANIFEST WEIGHT OF THE EVIDENCE IN VIOLATION OF THE DUE PROCESS CLAUSE OF THE FIFTH AND FOURTEENTH AMENDMENTS TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION AND SECTIONS 10 & 16, ARTICLE I OF THE OHIO CONSTITUTION.”
VI. “THE TRIAL COURT ERRED WHEN IT SENTENCED LECHNER, IN VIOLATION OF HIS DUE PROCESS RIGHTS UNDER THE FIFTH AND FOURTEENTH AMENDMENTS TO THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION AND SECTION SIXTEEN, ARTICLE ONE OF THE OHIO CONSTITUTION.”
ASSIGNMENT OF ERROR I
{¶8} In his first assignment of error, Appellant contends that his
constitutional right to a speedy trial was violated. He argues that initial charges
Highland App. No. 19CA3 6
were filed against him in August of 2017, but he was not brought to trial until over
one year later in December of 2018. As a result, he contends he was presumptively
prejudiced from the delay, and he argues the delay infringed upon his rights to a
speedy trial. In response, the State notes that although charges were filed against
Appellant on August 25, 2017, he was not arrested on the offense until November
29, 2017. The State also argues speedy trial time was extended by various tolling
events, including Appellant’s incompetency to stand trial for a period of time.
{¶9} A review of the record below indicates Appellant filed a motion to
dismiss based upon speedy trial grounds prior to his scheduled trial, which was
denied by the trial court. Appellate review of a trial court's decision on a motion to
dismiss for a violation of the speedy trial requirements presents a mixed question
of law and fact. State v. James, 4th Dist. Ross No. 13CA3393, 2014-Ohio-1702,
¶ 23; State v. Brown, 131 Ohio App.3d 387, 391, 722 N.E.2d 594 (4th Dist. 1998).
Thus, appellate courts will defer to a trial court's findings of fact as long as
competent, credible evidence supports them. Brown at 391. Appellate courts then
independently determine whether the trial court properly applied the law to the
facts. Id. “Furthermore, when reviewing the legal issues presented in a speedy
trial claim, we must strictly construe the relevant statutes against the state.” Id.,
citing Brecksville v. Cook, 75 Ohio St.3d 53, 57, 661 N.E.2d 706 (1996). Here, the
trial court filed a six-page decision denying Appellant’s motion to dismiss, which
Highland App. No. 19CA3 7
included findings of facts. The trial court’s decision included an analysis of
elapsed speedy trial days, taking into considering the triple count provision, as well
as tolling events which extended speedy trial time. The trial court ultimately
concluded one hundred forty-three days remained for speedy trial purposes at the
time Appellant’s motion to dismiss was filed. As such, the trial court denied the
motion.
{¶10} Appellant now argues on appeal that his constitutional right to a
speedy trial was violated. The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution
guarantees an accused in a criminal prosecution the right to a speedy trial. The
Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment makes this provision applicable
to the states. Klopfer v. North Carolina, 386 U.S. 213, 87 S.Ct. 988, 18 L.Ed.2d 1
(1967). In analyzing whether an accused has been denied the constitutional right
to a speedy trial, a court must consider four factors: (1) the length of the delay; (2)
the reason for the delay; (3) the accused's assertion of his right; and (4) prejudice to
the accused. Barker v. Wingo, 407 U.S. 514, 530, 92 S.Ct. 2182, 33 L.Ed.2d 101
(1972). None of these four factors is per se determinative of whether an accused
suffered a violation of his constitutional right to a speedy trial. Id. at 532. Instead,
the court must consider the factors collectively. Id.
{¶11} The United States Supreme Court has recognized that the first factor,
length of the delay, involves a double inquiry. Doggett v. United States, 505 U.S.
Highland App. No. 19CA3 8
647, 651, 112 S.Ct. 2686, 120 L.Ed.2d 520 (1992). First, an accused must show
that the length of the delay was “presumptively prejudicial” in order to trigger the
Barker analysis. Id. at 651–52. Once the Barker analysis is triggered, length of
delay beyond the initial threshold showing is again considered and balanced
against the other relevant factors. Id. at 652.
{¶12} Here, a complaint was initially filed in the Hillsboro Municipal Court
charging Appellant with felonious assault on August 25, 2017. Amended
complaints were thereafter filed on August 31, 2017 and September 11, 2017.
However, Appellant was not arrested on that charge until November 29, 2017, and
he was not brought to trial until December 13, 2018. As noted by this Court in
State v. Spencer, 2017-Ohio-456, 84 N.E.3d 106, ¶ 3 “ ‘courts generally find post
accusation delay to be ‘presumptively prejudicial’ as it approaches one year.’ ”
Quoting Doggett at fn. 1. As a result, we find the sixteen-month delay between the
filing of the criminal complaint and trial was presumptively prejudicial and that it
triggers the Barker analysis.
{¶13} We begin that analysis by examining the first factor, which considers
the length of the delay, as well as the second factor, which considers the reason for
the delay. In considering these factors, we observe that R.C. 2945.71 governs the
time within which the state must bring a defendant to trial. Under R.C.
2945.71(C)(2), a person charged with a felony offense must be brought to trial
Highland App. No. 19CA3 9
within 270 days after the person's arrest. Here, as noted above, Appellant was not
actually arrested until November 29, 2017. Thus, November 29, 2017 started the
running of the speedy trial clock. Further, R.C. 2945.72 provides that the time
within which an accused charged with a felony must be brought to trial may be
extended by the following:
(A) Any period during which the accused is unavailable for hearing or
trial, by reason of other criminal proceedings against him, within or
outside the state, by reason of his confinement in another state, or by
reason of the pendency of extradition proceedings, provided that the
prosecution exercises reasonable diligence to secure his availability;
(B) Any period during which the accused is mentally incompetent to
stand trial or during which his mental competence to stand trial is
being determined, or any period during which the accused is
physically incapable of standing trial;
(C) Any period of delay necessitated by the accused's lack of counsel,
provided that such delay is not occasioned by any lack of diligence in
providing counsel to an indigent accused upon his request as required
by law;
(D) Any period of delay occasioned by the neglect or improper act of
the accused;
Highland App. No. 19CA3 10
(E) Any period of delay necessitated by reason of a plea in bar or
abatement, motion, proceeding, or action made or instituted by the
accused;
(F) Any period of delay necessitated by a removal or change of venue
pursuant to law;
(G) Any period during which trial is stayed pursuant to an express
statutory requirement, or pursuant to an order of another court
competent to issue such order;
(H) The period of any continuance granted on the accused's own
motion, and the period of any reasonable continuance granted other
than upon the accused's own motion;
(I) Any period during which an appeal filed pursuant to section
2945.67 of the Revised Code is pending. (Emphasis added).
{¶14} A review of the record reveals that on December 12, 2017, just
thirteen days after Appellant was arrested, he filed a motion for a competency
evaluation. The filing of that motion tolled the speedy trial clock in accordance
with R.C. 2945.72(B) and (E) until January 2, 2018 when the trial court ordered a
competency evaluation. Time was further tolled from January 2, 2017 until
January 10, 2018 when the trial court determined Appellant was incompetent to
stand trial and placed the case on the inactive docket. Time continued to be tolled
Highland App. No. 19CA3 11
until May 1, 2018 when Appellant was returned to competency. Further, Appellant
filed another motion to determine his competency on July 19, 2018. As a result,
the trial court ordered a second competency evaluation and again placed the case
on the inactive docket. The case was returned to the active docket on August 24,
2018 because Appellant was determined to be competent at that time.
{¶15} Thus, although there was a sixteen-month delay between the filing of
the initial complaint and trial, speedy trial time did not begin to run until
November 29, 2017 when Appellant was arrested. Additionally, during the
thirteen months between Appellant’s arrest and trial, Appellant was incompetent
and institutionalized for four months and then was evaluated for competency a
second time, which tolled time for an additional month. In total, five of the
thirteen months at issue were tolled by Appellant’s motions to determine his
competency and by his period of incompetency. Further, Appellant filed other
motions which tolled speedy trial time, including a request for discovery, a request
for a bill of particulars and eventually a motion to dismiss based upon speedy trial
grounds. Appellant’s motion to dismiss based upon speedy trial grounds was filed
on September 20, 2018 and tolled speedy trial time for another month until it was
ruled upon on October 31, 2018.
{¶16} Subtracting those six months from the thirteen-month total, it appears
only seven months should have been counted against the State for speedy trial
Highland App. No. 19CA3 12
purposes. Considering only thirteen of these days invoked the triple count
provision, Appellant was brought to trial well within the 270 days permitted in
R.C. 2945.71, and in less than one year from a constitutional speedy trial
standpoint. As such, although Appellant has shown the length of the delay here
was presumptively prejudicial as it exceeded one year, we believe the second
factor of the Barker analysis, which considers the reason for the delay, mitigates in
favor of the State.
{¶17} We now move on to a consideration of the third and fourth factors.
The third factor involves an analysis of Appellant’s assertion of his right. We
initially note that the bulk of the delay was attributable to Appellant’s
incompetency, which was challenged by Appellant himself, and which accounted
for five months of the thirteen-month delay between his arrest and trial. Further,
and importantly, it appears from the record that Appellant executed a waiver of
time on December 12, 2017.
{¶18} It is well-settled law that an accused may waive his right to a speedy
trial. State v. King, 70 Ohio St.3d 158, 160, 637 N.E.2d 903 (1994). As further
observed by the Court in King:
Consistent with this principle, this court has found the statutory
speedy trial provisions set forth in R.C. 2945.71 to be coextensive
with constitutional speedy trial provisions. State v. O'Brien (1987),
Highland App. No. 19CA3 13
34 Ohio St.3d 7, 516 N.E.2d 218. Thus, we have held that an
accused's express written waiver of his statutory rights to a speedy
trial, made knowingly and voluntarily, also constitutes a waiver of his
speedy trial rights guaranteed by the United States and Ohio
Constitutions. Id.
{¶19} Additionally, the waiver executed by Appellant did not specify an end
date. Furthermore, as explained in State v. Bray, 9th Dist. Lorain No.
03CA008241, 2004-Ohio-1067, ¶ 8, “[a] waiver may be limited or unlimited in
duration.” The Bray court went on to explain as follows:
“[A] waiver that expressly waives the accused's right to a speedy trial
under the statute without mentioning a specific time period is
unlimited in duration.” State v. Kovacek (May 30, 2001), 9th Dist.
No. 00CA007713 [2001 WL 577664], citing O'Brien, 34 Ohio St.3d
7, 516 N.E.2d 218 at paragraph two of the syllabus. See also State v.
Smith (Dec. 22, 1999), 9th Dist. No. 98CA007144 [1999 WL
1260872], citing In re Fuller (Dec. 14, 1994), 9th Dist. No. 16824
[1994 WL 700086] (finding that “in the absence of a clearly
articulated specific period of time, a waiver is of unlimited duration”);
State v. Lee (Apr. 13, 1994), 9th Dist. No. 93CA005671 [1994 WL
122337] (rejecting defendant's argument that a waiver, not specifying
Highland App. No. 19CA3 14
a limited time frame, was only a waiver for the period of time from
the date of the waiver to the originally scheduled date for trial).
Furthermore, when a waiver fails to include a specific date as the
starting point for the tolling of time, the waiver is deemed to be
effective from the date of arrest. State v. Harris (Oct. 30, 1996), 9th
Dist. No. 95CA006275 [1996 WL 625222], citing State v. Baugh (Jan.
31, 1996), 9th Dist. No. 95CA006124 [1996 WL 37726]. Once an
accused has executed an express, written waiver of unlimited
duration, “the accused is not entitled to a discharge for delay in
bringing him to trial unless the accused files a formal written
objection and demand for trial, following which the state must bring
the accused to trial within a reasonable time.” O'Brien, 34 Ohio St.3d
7, 516 N.E.2d 218 at paragraph two of the syllabus. Id.
{¶20} These principles were more recently reaffirmed in State v. Miller,
2017-Ohio-5728, 94 N.E.3d 980 (5th Dist. 2017), where the court noted that a
speedy trial waiver that does not mention a specific time period is unlimited in
duration, and found that the waiver at issue was unlimited despite assertions to the
contrary by the appellant. See also State v. Maisch, 173 Ohio App.3d 724, 2007
Ohio-6230, 880 N.E.2d 153, ¶ 28 (rejecting an argument a time waiver “to allow
his counsel opportunity to prepare for trial” is qualifying language limiting the
Highland App. No. 19CA3 15
duration of a waiver because there was no specific period of duration of the
waiver). Here, the time waiver executed by Appellant specified no end date and
was never revoked. Moreover, Appellant filed no formal written objection or
demand for trial. As explained by the O’Brien Court in paragraph two of the
syllabus:
Following an express, written waiver of unlimited duration by an
accused of his right to a speedy trial, the accused is not entitled to a
discharge for delay in bringing him to trial unless the accused files a
formal written objection and demand for trial, following which the
state must bring the accused to trial within a reasonable time.
The O'Brien Court reasoned that a trial court may reasonably rely upon a written
waiver of speedy trial in the exercise of its duty of scheduling trials, and that a
defendant is required to inform the court of an objection to a further continuance
and reassertion of the defendant's right to a speedy trial. Id. at 9–10. Here, in light
of the fact that Appellant filed a waiver of time of unlimited duration which he
never revoked, as well as the fact that he failed to file a formal, written objection or
demand for trial, we find that the third factor of the Barker test mitigates in favor
of the State.
{¶21} Finally, the fourth factor involves an analysis of the prejudice to the
accused. In Barker, the United States Supreme Court identified three interests that
Highland App. No. 19CA3 16
the speedy trial right is designed to protect: “(i) to prevent oppressive pretrial
incarceration; (ii) to minimize anxiety and concern of the accused; and (iii) to limit
the possibility that the defense will be impaired.” Barker, supra, at 532. Here,
Appellant was incarcerated for only thirteen days between the date of his arrest and
trial. Thus, there was no concern of oppressive pretrial incarceration here.
Further, Appellant has failed to make any argument regarding anxiety, concern or
prejudice that occurred as a result of the post-accusation delay. Aside from
arguing he was presumptively prejudiced by the delay, he claims no actual
prejudice. As such, the fourth Barker factor also mitigates in favor of the State.
{¶22} To summarize, we have concluded that all four Barker factors
mitigate in favor of the State and that Appellant has failed to demonstrate any
actual prejudice resulted from the post-accusation delay in bringing him to trial.
Considering the totality of the circumstances, Appellant has failed to demonstrate a
violation of his Sixth Amendment speedy trial rights. Accordingly, his second first
assignment of error is overruled.
ASSIGNMENT OF ERROR II
{¶23} In his second assignment of error Appellant contends the trial court
erred in finding that he was competent to stand trial. Appellant argues there was
no basis for the trial court to find he was competent to stand trial in light of his
history of mental illness, which is so severe that he believed his name is Cane and
Highland App. No. 19CA3 17
that he is the prince of England. However, as will be explained in detail below,
because Appellant failed to ensure that the written physician reports regarding the
competency evaluations were filed and made part of the record for purposes of
appeal, our review is very limited. Further, for the following reasons, we cannot
find the trial court abused its discretion in determining Appellant was competent to
stand trial, and competent at the time the offense was committed.
{¶24} A trial court's decision on competency will not be disturbed absent an
abuse of discretion. State v. Clark, 71 Ohio St.3d 466, 469, 1994–Ohio–43, 644
N.E.2d 331. An “abuse of discretion” requires more than an error of judgment; it
implies the court's attitude is unreasonable, arbitrary or unconscionable. Id. at 470.
Thus, an appellate court will not disturb the trial court's competency determination
if the record contains “some reliable, credible evidence supporting the trial court’s
conclusion that appellant understood the nature and objective of the proceedings
against him.” State v. Williams, 23 Ohio St.3d 16, 19, 490 N.E.2d 906 (1986);
State v. Stewart, 4th Dist. Gallia No. 91CA24, 1992 WL 174699, *3 (July 22,
1992).
{¶25} Due process requires a criminal defendant be competent to stand trial.
State v. Berry, 72 Ohio St.3d 354, 359, 1995–Ohio–310, 650 N.E.2d 433. “It has
long been accepted that a person who lacks the capacity to understand the nature
and object of the proceedings against him, to consult with counsel, and to assist in
Highland App. No. 19CA3 18
preparing his defense may not be subjected to a trial.” Drope v. Missouri, 420 U.S.
162, 171, 95 S.Ct. 896, 43 L.Ed.2d 103 (1975). Thus, “[c]onviction of an accused
while he or she is legally incompetent is a violation of due process.” State v.
Merryman, 4th Dist. Athens No. 12CA28, 2013-Ohio-4810, ¶ 14.
{¶26} The United States Supreme Court established the test for competency
and requires the court to determine if an accused “has sufficient present ability to
consult with his lawyer with a reasonable degree of rational understanding - and
whether he has a rational as well as factual understanding of the proceedings
against him.” Dusky v. United States, 362 U.S. 402, 80 S.Ct. 788, 789, 4 L.Ed.2d
824 (1960). Ohio has codified the competency test:
A defendant is presumed to be competent to stand trial. If, after a
hearing, the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that,
because of the defendant's present mental condition, the defendant is
incapable of understanding the nature and objective of the
proceedings against the defendant or of assisting in the defendant's
defense, the court shall find the defendant incompetent to stand trial
and shall enter an order authorized by section 2945.38 of the Revised
Code.
R.C. 2945.37(G).
Highland App. No. 19CA3 19
{¶27} Under this subjective test, if a defendant is capable of understanding
the nature and objective of the proceedings and assisting in the defense, then the
defendant is competent to stand trial. A defendant with mental illness or
intellectual deficiencies may still be competent to stand trial. “Incompetency must
not be equated with mere mental or emotional instability or even with outright
insanity. A defendant may be emotionally disturbed or even psychotic and still be
capable of understanding the charges against him and of assisting his counsel.”
State v. Bock, 28 Ohio St.3d 108, 110, 502 N.E.2d 1016 (1986).
{¶28} Here, our review of the record indicates that the issue of Appellant’s
competency was raised two different times in this matter. It was first raised in the
municipal court shortly after Appellant’s arrest. It was raised a second time in the
common pleas court. Appellant requested that all of the common pleas court
hearing transcripts be transmitted to this Court for purposes of appeal. However,
although the municipal court record was transmitted to us, Appellant did not
request the municipal court hearing transcripts be transmitted to us. As such, we
have no ability to review the municipal court’s initial finding on January 10, 2018
that Appellant was incompetent. Nor can we review the municipal court’s May 1,
2018 determination that Appellant had been restored to competency. 1
1 Not only was the transcript of this competency hearing not requested by Appellant or transmitted on appeal, the written report of the competency evaluation referenced in the trial court’s January 10, 2018 entry was not filed or otherwise made a part of the record below. Further, the subsequent report from the Twin Valley Behavioral Center
Highland App. No. 19CA3 20
{¶29} “ ‘[I]t is the appellant's duty to transmit the [record] to the court of
appeals. * * * This duty falls to the appellant because the appellant has the burden
of establishing error in the trial court.’ ” State v. Crawford, 4th Dist. Scioto No.
16CA3778, 2018-Ohio-2166, ¶ 12, quoting State v. Bailey, 4th Dist. Scioto No.
09CA3287, 2010-Ohio-2239, ¶ 57, citing State v. Dalton, 9th Dist. Lorain No.
09CA009589, 2009-Ohio-6910, ¶ 2, in turn citing Knapp v. Edwards Laboratories,
61 Ohio St.2d 197, 199, 400 N.E.2d 384 (1980) (internal citations omitted).
Because Appellant has not provided us with the hearing transcripts or expert
reports necessary to review his first determination of incompetency and restoration
to competency, we must presume the regularity and validity of the proceedings
below as to Appellant’s competency determination. Crawford at ¶ 13.
{¶30} As indicated above, the issue of Appellant’s competency was
subsequently raised a second time at the common pleas court level. The record
indicates that Appellant’s counsel filed a Motion for a Psychiatric Evaluation
Pursuant to R.C. 2945.371 on July 19, 2018, requesting a determination of his
competence to stand trial, as well as his mental condition at the time of the
commission of the offense. As a result, on July 24, 2018, the trial court issued two
orders directing the requested evaluations be performed. The trial court issued a
referenced in the court’s May 1, 2018 order finding Appellant had been restored to competency was not filed or made part of the record. Thus, they are not part of our review on appeal.
Highland App. No. 19CA3 21
third order placing the matter on the inactive docket pending evaluation results. A
hearing on the evaluations was held on August 24, 2018. A transcript of that
hearing is properly before this Court for review. According to the transcript,
however, no witnesses were called at the evaluation hearing. Instead, the
psychological report of psychologist, Dr. Joy McGhee was “filed” and “referenced
by the court.” Although the hearing transcript indicates that a copy of the report
had been provided to the court and counsel, the report was not admitted as an
exhibit and does not appear to have been filed or made part of the record.
{¶31} The hearing transcript indicates that the trial court found Appellant
competent to stand trial and that there was no basis for a plea of not guilty by
reason of insanity based upon the evaluation from Dr. McGhee. No other
testimony or evidence was presented at the hearing. As the trial court’s decision
appears to have been based solely upon the evaluation by Dr. McGhee, and
because that evaluation was not made part of the record for purposes of appeal, we
again must presume the regularity and validity of the proceedings below as to
Appellant’s competency determination.
{¶32} Further, as the trier of fact, the trial court was in the position to
determine the credibility of the expert witness. The weight to be given the
evidence and the credibility of the witnesses are primarily for the trial court as the
trier of fact. State v. Stewart, supra, at *3, citing State v. DeHass, 10 Ohio St.2d
Highland App. No. 19CA3 22
230, 227 N.E.2d 212 (1967). The adequacy of the “data relied upon by the expert
who examined [the defendant] is a question for the trier of fact.” Id. “Deference
on these issues should be given ‘to those who see and hear what goes on in the
courtroom.’ ” State v. Were, 118 Ohio St.3d 448, 2008–Ohio–2762, 890 N.E.2d
263, quoting State v. Cowans, 87 Ohio St.3d 68, 84, 1999–Ohio–250, 717 N.E.2d
298 (1999).
{¶33} Moreover, what is available for this Court’s review indicates the trial
court handled Appellant’s competency determination properly and in accordance
with the controlling statutes. For instance, when the issue of Appellant’s
competency was raised, the trial court ordered a competency evaluation in
accordance with R.C. 2945.371 and held a competency hearing in accordance with
R.C. 2945.37. Further, once the trial court found Appellant was competent to
stand trial, the matter proceeded to trial in accordance with R.C. 2945.38. As such,
we conclude the trial court's finding of competency was made after holding a
hearing on the matter and was based on a medical report from Appellant’s
evaluating physician that was introduced by the State, without objection or rebuttal
by Appellant. Based upon our limited review, it appears the record contains
reliable and credible evidence to support the trial court's decision that Appellant
was competent to stand trial. Thus, we cannot find the trial court abused its
discretion in determining Appellant was competent at the time the offense was
Highland App. No. 19CA3 23
committed and that he was also competent to stand trial. Accordingly, we overrule
Appellant’s second assignment of error.
ASSIGNMENT OF ERROR III
{¶34} In his third assignment of error Appellant contends the trial court
improperly required him to prove self-defense. The State contends the trial court
properly placed the burden on Appellant to prove self-defense by a preponderance
of the evidence. For the reasons that follow, we agree with the State.
{¶35} R.C. 2901.05 is Ohio’s self-defense statute. The version of the statute
that was in effect both at the time of the commission of the offense and at the time
of Appellant’s trial provided, in pertinent part, as follows in section (A): “ * * *
The burden of going forward with the evidence of an affirmative defense, and the
burden of proof, by a preponderance of the evidence, for an affirmative defense, is
upon the accused.” Both parties note that Ohio’s self-defense statute was revised,
effective March 28, 2019, and that the revision in effect shifted the burden to the
prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused person did not act
in self-defense. The revised version of the statute provides, in pertinent part, as
follows:
(A) * * * The burden of going forward with the evidence of an
affirmative defense, and the burden of proof, by a preponderance of
the evidence, for an affirmative defense other than self-defense,
Highland App. No. 19CA3 24
defense of another, or defense of the accused’s residence as described
in division (B)(1) of this section, is upon the accused.
(B)(1) A person is allowed to act in self-defense, defense of another,
or defense of that person's residence. If, at the trial of a person who is
accused of an offense that involved the person's use of force against
another, there is evidence presented that tends to support that the
accused person used the force in self-defense, defense of another, or
defense of that person's residence, the prosecution must prove beyond
a reasonable doubt that the accused person did not use the force in
self-defense, defense of another, or defense of that person's residence,
as the case may be.
{¶36} Appellant concedes that the revised version of the statute had not
gone into effect at the time he committed his offense or at the time of his trial.
Appellant also notes that the United States Supreme Court upheld the
constitutionality of the applicable version of R.C. 2901.05 in Martin v. Ohio, 480
U.S.228, 107 S.Ct. 1098, 94 L.Ed.2d 267 (1987). Nonetheless, Appellant argues
that it is “incongruous” and “unconstitutional” to require a defendant to prove self
defense in light of the holding of Dist. of Columbia v. Heller, 554 U.S. 570, 128
S.Ct. 2783, 171 L.Ed.2d 637 (2008), as Heller “recognized that the right of self
Highland App. No. 19CA3 25
defense is paramount to individuals in society and is well engrained in the federal
constitution.”
{¶37} At issue in Heller was “whether a District of Columbia prohibition on
the possession of usable handguns in the home violate[d] the Second Amendment
to the Constitution. Heller at 573. Although the Heller court holding recognized
the importance of the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms, especially
for “the core lawful purpose of self-defense,” and ultimately concluded the District
of Columbia’s prohibition was unconstitutional, the Court did not speak to the
burden being upon the accused to prove the affirmative defense of self-defense. Id.
at paragraph three of the syllabus. Thus, we find Appellant’s reliance upon Heller
for an argument that the applicable version of Ohio’s self-defense statute was
unconstitutional to be misplaced.
{¶38} The trial transcript indicates the trial court properly instructed the jury
that the burden of going forward with evidence on the affirmative defense of self
defense was upon Appellant and that such defense must be established by a
preponderance of the evidence. This instruction was in accordance with the
version of R.C. 2901.05 that was in effect at the time, and which had previously
been deemed constitutional. As such, we find no merit to Appellant’s third
assignment of error and it is hereby overruled.
Highland App. No. 19CA3 26
ASSIGNMENTS OF ERROR IV AND V
{¶39} We address Appellant’s fourth and fifth assignments of error in
conjunction with one another for ease of analysis. In his fourth assignment of error
Appellant contends his conviction is based upon insufficient evidence. In his fifth
assignment of error he contends his conviction is against the manifest weight of the
evidence. Both of these assignments of error are limited to an argument that
Appellant was acting in self-defense. The State responds that the jury heard and
considered Appellant’s version of events, but believed the State’s witnesses
instead.
{¶40} “When an appellate court concludes that the weight of the evidence
supports a defendant's conviction, this conclusion necessarily includes a finding
that sufficient evidence supports the conviction.” State v. Puckett, 191 Ohio
App.3d 747, 2010–Ohio–6597, 947 N.E.2d 730, ¶ 34, citing State v. Pollitt, 4th
Dist. Scioto No. 08CA3263, 2010–Ohio–2556 ¶ 15. “ ‘ “Thus, a determination
that [a] conviction is supported by the weight of the evidence will also be
dispositive of the issue of sufficiency.” ’ ” Puckett at ¶ 34, quoting State v.
Lombardi, 9th Dist. Summit No. 22435, 2005–Ohio–4942, ¶ 9, in turn quoting
State v. Roberts, 9th Dist. Lorain No. 96CA006462, 1997 WL 600669 (Sept. 17,
1997). Therefore, we first consider whether Appellant's convictions were against
the manifest weight of the evidence.
Highland App. No. 19CA3 27
{¶41} “In determining whether a criminal conviction is against the manifest
weight of the evidence, an appellate court must review the entire record, weigh the
evidence and all reasonable inferences, consider the credibility of witnesses and
determine whether, in resolving conflicts in the evidence, the trier of fact clearly
lost its way and created such a manifest miscarriage of justice that the conviction
must be reversed.” State v. Brown, 4th Dist. Athens No. 09CA3, 2009–Ohio–
5390, ¶ 24, citing State v. Thompkins, 78 Ohio St.3d 380, 387, 678 N.E.2d 541. A
reviewing court “may not reverse a conviction when there is substantial evidence
upon which the trial court could reasonably conclude that all elements of the
offense have been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.” State v. Johnson, 58 Ohio
St.3d 40, 42, 567 N.E.2d 266 (1991), citing State v. Eskridge, 38 Ohio St.3d 56,
526 N.E.2d 304, paragraph two of the syllabus (1988).
{¶42} Even in acting as a thirteenth juror we must still remember that the
weight to be given evidence and the credibility to be afforded testimony are issues
to be determined by the trier of fact. State v. Frazier, 73 Ohio St.3d 323, 339, 652
N.E.2d 1000 (1995), citing State v. Grant, 67 Ohio St.3d 465, 477, 620 N.E.2d 50
(1993). The fact finder “is best able to view the witnesses and observe their
demeanor, gestures, and voice inflections, and use these observations in weighing
the credibility of the proffered testimony.” Seasons Coal Co. v. Cleveland, 10
Ohio St.3d 77, 80, 461 N.E.2d 1273 (1984) (per curiam). Thus, we will only
Highland App. No. 19CA3 28
interfere if the fact finder clearly lost its way and created a manifest miscarriage of
justice. Moreover, “[t]o reverse a judgment of a trial court on the weight of the
evidence, when the judgment results from a trial by jury, a unanimous concurrence
of all three judges on the court of appeals panel reviewing the case is required.”
Thompkins at paragraph four of the syllabus, construing and applying Section
3(B)(3), Article IV of the Ohio Constitution.
{¶43} Appellant raises a somewhat limited argument. He does not contend
the State failed to prove any of the elements of felonious assault beyond a
reasonable doubt. Instead, he simply argues that his “conviction for felonious
assault cannot stand because he acted in self-defense.” Appellant argues that state
of mind is a crucial element of self-defense and that he became frightened when
the victim “pulled a gun” on him. He argues that the victim pulling a gun, coupled
with his history of mental illness, “caused him to throw his hand up toward the
gun[,] resulting in the gun striking the victim in the face.
{¶44} “Self-defense is an affirmative defense that, if proved, relieves a
defendant of criminal liability for the force that the defendant used.” State v.
Kozlosky, 195 Ohio App.3d 343, 2011–Ohio–4814, 959 N.E.2d 1097, ¶ 22. “ ‘The
burden of going forward with the evidence of an affirmative defense, and the
burden of proof, by a preponderance of the evidence, for an affirmative defense, is
upon the accused.’ ” State v. Nucklos, 121 Ohio St.3d 332, 2009–Ohio–792, 904
Highland App. No. 19CA3 29
N.E.2d 512, ¶ 7; quoting R.C. 2901.05(A). We observe that affirmative defenses
such as self-defense “ ‘do not seek to negate any of the elements of the offense
which the State is required to prove’ but rather they ‘admit[ ] the facts claimed by
the prosecution and then rel[y] on independent facts or circumstances which the
defendant claims exempt him from liability.’ ” State v. Smith, 3d Dist. Logan No.
8–12–05, 2013–Ohio–746, ¶ 32; quoting State v. Martin, 21 Ohio St.3d 91, 94, 488
N.E.2d 166 (1986).
{¶45} To establish self-defense, a defendant must establish, by a
preponderance of the evidence, the following three circumstances:
“(1) the defendant was not at fault in creating the violent situation, (2)
the defendant had a bona fide belief that she was in imminent danger
of death or great bodily harm and that her only means of escape was
the use of force, and (3) that the defendant did not violate any duty to
retreat or avoid the danger.” State v. Goff, 128 Ohio St.3d 169, 2010–
Ohio–6317, 942 N.E.2d 1075, ¶ 36; quoting State v. Thomas, 77 Ohio
St.3d 323, 326, 673 N.E.2d 1339 (1997).
The “elements of self-defense are cumulative. * * * [Thus, i]f the defendant fails to
prove any one of these elements by a preponderance of the evidence he has failed
to demonstrate that he acted in self-defense.” State v. Jackson, 22 Ohio St.3d 281,
284, 490 N.E.2d 893 (1986). Accord State v. Cassano, 96 Ohio St.3d 94, 2002–
Highland App. No. 19CA3 30
Ohio–3751, 772 N.E.2d 81, ¶ 73; State v. Hargrave, 4th Dist. Adams No.
11CA907, 2012–Ohio–798, ¶ 16.
{¶46} Here, aside from simply arguing he acted in self-defense, Appellant
has failed to address the three circumstances concerning self-defense set forth
above. Further, the jury heard both the victim’s and Appellant’s version of events.
The victim testified that Appellant punched her in the face, causing her injuries.
The victim’s daughter also testified and corroborated the victim’s testimony. Both
the victim and her daughter denied she had a gun. The medical records entered
into evidence all described the cause of the victim’s injuries as being the result of
being punched in the face by her brother. Additionally, the physician’s assistant
who attended the victim in the emergency room testified that Appellant sustained
“maxillofacial facial fractures from an assault,” as well an “orbital fracture.” She
said such an injury is “commonly suffered from someone who gets hit in the face.”
Appellant, on the other hand, testified that the victim pulled a gun on him and that
he essentially backhanded her so he could get away from her and get out the door.
{¶47} As we have already explained, the weight to be given evidence and
the credibility to be afforded testimony are issues to be determined by the trier of
fact. State v. Frazier, supra, at 339, citing State v. Grant, at 477. The jury, as the
trier of fact, is free to accept or to reject any and all of the evidence and to assess
witness credibility. Further, a verdict is not against the manifest weight of the
Highland App. No. 19CA3 31
evidence simply because the factfinder opts to believe the State's witnesses. State
v. Brooks, 4th Dist. Ross No. 15CA3490, 2016-Ohio-3003, ¶ 32, citing, e.g., State
v. Chancey, 4th Dist. Washington No. 15CA17, 2015-Ohio-5585, ¶ 36, citing State
v. Wilson, 9th Dist. Lorain No. 12CA010263, 2014-Ohio-3182, ¶ 24, citing State v.
Martinez, 9th Dist. Wayne No. 12CA0054, 2013-Ohio-3189, ¶ 16. A factfinder is
free to believe all, part, or none of a witness's testimony. Brooks at ¶ 32, citing
State v. Scott, 4th Dist. Washington No. 15CA2, 2015-Ohio-4170, ¶ 25; State v.
Jenkins, 4th Dist. Ross No. 13CA3413, 2014-Ohio-3123, ¶ 37. Thus, in the case
sub judice, the jury, after hearing and observing the witnesses, obviously found the
testimony of the State's witnesses credible. “It is not our job to second-guess the
jury where there is evidence from which it could reach a guilty verdict; we must
defer to the jury's credibility and weight determinations.” State v. Burris, 4th Dist.
Athens No. 16CA7, 2017-Ohio-454, ¶ 31. Furthermore, we cannot conclude this is
an “ ‘exceptional case in which the evidence weighs heavily against the
conviction.’ ” Thompkins, supra, at 387, quoting State v. Martin, 20 Ohio App.3d
172, 175, 485 N.E.2d 717 (1st Dist. 1983).
{¶48} As such, after reviewing the entire record, we cannot say that the jury
lost its way or created a manifest miscarriage of justice when it found Appellant
guilty of felonious assault and, in doing so, rejected Appellant’s affirmative
defense of self-defense. Accordingly, we find that Appellant's conviction was not
Highland App. No. 19CA3 32
against the manifest weight of the evidence. Thus, we necessarily also conclude
that sufficient evidence supports his conviction. We therefore overrule Appellant's
fourth and fifth assignments of error.
ASSIGNMENT OF ERROR VI
{¶49} In his sixth assignment of error Appellant contends the trial court
erred in sentencing him. More specifically, Appellant contends the record supports
an argument community control would have been more appropriate than a seven
year prison term and, as such, he was sentenced in contravention of the sentencing
statutes. The State responds by noting that a seven-year prison term was imposed
by the trial court after it properly considered the statutory sentencing factors, as
well as Appellant’s criminal history and “long history of violence.” Thus, the State
contends the sentence imposed by the trial court was proper.
{¶50} When reviewing felony sentences, appellate courts must apply the
standard of review set forth in R.C. 2953.08(G)(2). State v. Marcum, 146 Ohio
St.3d 516, 2016-Ohio-1002, 59 N.E.3d 1231, ¶1, 22-23. Under R.C.
2953.08(G)(2), “[t]he appellate court's standard for review is not whether the
sentencing court abused its discretion.” Instead, R.C. 2953.08(G)(2) provides that
an appellate court may increase, reduce, modify, or vacate and remand a
challenged felony sentence if the court clearly and convincingly finds either:
Highland App. No. 19CA3 33
(a) That the record does not support the sentencing court's findings
under division (B) or (D) of section 2929.13, division (B)(2)(e) or
(C)(4) of section 2929.14, or division (I) of section 2929.20 of the
Revised Code, whichever, if any, is relevant;
(b) That the sentence is otherwise contrary to law.
{¶51} Although R.C. 2953.08(G)(2)(a) does not mention R.C. 2929.11 and
2929.12, the Supreme Court of Ohio has determined that the same standard of
review applies to those statutes. Marcum at ¶ 23 (although “some sentences do not
require the findings that R.C. 2953.08(G)(2)(a) specifically addresses[,] * * * it is
fully consistent for appellate courts to review those sentences that are imposed
solely after consideration of the factors in R.C. 2929.11 and 2929.12 under a
standard that is equally deferential to the sentencing court”); State v. Butcher, 4th
Dist. Athens Nos. 15CA33, 15CA34, 2017-Ohio-1544, ¶ 84. Consequently, “an
appellate court may vacate or modify any sentence that is not clearly and
convincingly contrary to law only if the appellate court finds by clear and
convincing evidence that the record does not support the sentence.” Marcum at
¶ 23; Butcher at ¶ 84.
{¶52} “Once the trial court considers R.C. 2929.11 and 2929.12, the burden
is on the defendant to demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that the record
does not support his sentence.” State v. Akins-Daniels, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No.
Highland App. No. 19CA3 34
103817, 2016-Ohio-7048, ¶ 9; State v. O'Neill, 3rd Dist. Allen No. 1-09-27, 2009
Ohio-6156, fn. 1. “Clear and convincing evidence is ‘that measure or degree of
proof which is more than a mere “preponderance of the evidence,” but not to the
extent of such certainty as is required “beyond a reasonable doubt” in criminal
cases, and which will produce in the mind of the trier of facts a firm belief or
conviction as to the facts sought to be established.’ ” State ex rel. Husted v.
Brunner, 123 Ohio St.3d 288, 2009-Ohio-5327, 915 N.E.2d 1215, ¶ 18; quoting
Cross v. Ledford, 161 Ohio St. 469, 120 N.E.2d 118, paragraph three of the
syllabus (1954).
{¶53} We initially conclude that Appellant's sentence is not clearly and
convincingly contrary to law. The trial court imposed a seven-year prison term for
a second-degree felony, which provides for a range of two to seven years in prison,
along with a presumption of prison. Thus, the sentence imposed by the trial court
was provided for by statute. Further, Appellant does not argue that his sentence is
contrary to law. Instead, as set forth above, Appellant essentially argues his
sentence is not supported by the record because the trial court did not take into
consideration or properly weigh certain mitigating factors. For instance, Appellant
argues he should have been sentenced to community control rather than prison
because 1) the victim induced the offense; 2) he acted under strong provocation in
committing the offense; 3) his mental illness provides substantial grounds to
Highland App. No. 19CA3 35
mitigate his conduct; and 4) his healthcare providers indicate community control
rather than prison would be best for him.
{¶54} Here, the trial court considered all of the evidence before it, including
the information contained in the pre-sentence investigation, and ultimately
weighed the seriousness and recidivism and other sentencing factors in favor of a
prison term rather than community control. Appellant’s criminal history includes
three prior felony assault convictions as well as multiple misdemeanor offenses of
violence, including criminal damaging, discharge of a firearm in the city, assault
and aggravated menacing. As to Appellant’s argument that he should have been
sentenced to community control rather than prison because the victim induced the
offense, we note that the jury rejected Appellant’s self-defense argument.
Furthermore, we have determined on appeal that Appellant’s conviction for
felonious assault was supported by sufficient evidence and was not against the
manifest weight of the evidence, despite Appellant’s self-defense argument.
{¶55} Furthermore, we reject Appellant’s argument that he should have
been sentenced to community control because he acted under strong provocation in
light of the fact that he failed to argue this theory at trial. As discussed above,
Appellant asserted he acted in self-defense, not under strong provocation. An
argument that he acted under strong provocation is simply not supported by the
record. Next, we find no merit to Appellant’s argument that his mental illness
Highland App. No. 19CA3 36
provides substantial grounds to mitigate his conduct. Appellant’s competency at
the time the offense was committed was evaluated by a physician at Appellant’s
request. An expert report was provided to the trial court indicating Appellant was
competent at the time he committed the offense at issue. As such, the trial court
was not required to consider Appellant’s mental illness as a mitigating factor with
respect to sentencing.
{¶56} Finally, Appellant argues his healthcare providers indicated
community control, rather than prison, would be best for him. A review of the
sentencing hearing transcript reveals that Appellant’s trial counsel made the court
aware of two letters from psychologists at Scioto Paint Valley apparently
indicating treatment would be the “best course of action” for Appellant. However,
these letters were not made a part of the record and are not before us on appeal.
Further, in imposing sentence, the trial court stated there was “no question” that
Appellant had “mental health problems,” but the court also noted that the
“problem” was Appellant’s “long history of violence.” The court addressed
Appellant on the record as follows:
But, you know, you’ve got a history of violence; you’re not
controlling your temper; your reaction seems too [sic] be if something
upsets you that you, uh, you just lash out and start beating on people.
Highland App. No. 19CA3 37
And it’s necessary, I think, to protect the public to insure that you
don’t do this to other persons that you be incarcerated.
Thus, the trial court took into consideration Appellant’s mental illness and
appeared to be aware of the contents of two letters from Appellant’s healthcare
providers, but nevertheless, after weighing the seriousness and recidivism factors,
as well as the need to protect the public, the trial court rejected Appellant’s request
for community control in favor of imposing a prison term.
{¶57} Ultimately, it has been determined that Appellant’s conviction for
felonious assault was not against the manifest weight of the evidence, and that
Appellant did not act in self-defense. Further, despite Appellant’s assertions to the
contrary, he was determined competent at the time he committed the offense.
Thus, based upon the record before us, we cannot conclude that the trial court
failed to properly consider or analyze the seriousness and recidivism factors, or
that Appellant’s sentence was not supported by the record. As a result, we find no
merit to Appellant’s sixth assignment of error and it is, therefore, overruled.
Outcome: Having considered all of Appellant’s assignments of error, and
having found no merit to them, we hereby affirm the decision of the trial
court.
Plaintiff's Experts:
Defendant's Experts:
Comments: