State v. Jackson , 2019 Ohio 170 ( 2019 )

[Cite as State v. Jackson, 2019-Ohio-170.]
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO
THIRD APPELLATE DISTRICT
SENECA COUNTY
STATE OF OHIO,
PLAINTIFF-APPELLEE, CASE NO. 13-18-18
v.
KAREEM T. JACKSON, OPINION
DEFENDANT-APPELLANT.
Appeal from Seneca County Common Pleas Court
Trial Court No. 17 CR 0174
Judgment Affirmed
Date of Decision: January 22, 2019
APPEARANCES:
Alex K. Treece for Appellant
Derek W. DeVine for Appellee
Case No. 13-18-18
PRESTON, J.
{¶1} Defendant-appellant, Kareem T. Jackson (“Jackson”), appeals the April
13, 2018 conviction and May 23, 2018 judgment of sentence of the Seneca County
Court of Common Pleas. For the reasons that follow, we affirm.
{¶2} This case arises from a September 27, 2017 incident in which Jackson
allegedly broke into the house he used to share with Renae Fearing (“Fearing”), his
estranged girlfriend, threw her cellular telephone at the wall while she attempted to
call law enforcement, struck her repeatedly, and stole her money. (Apr. 12-13, 2018
Tr., Vol. I, at 98-99).
{¶3} On September 27, 2017, a felony complaint was filed in the Tiffin
Municipal Court charging Jackson with a single count of domestic violence in
violation of R.C. 2919.25(A), a third-degree felony. (Doc. No. 1). At the
preliminary hearing on October 3, 2017, the municipal court found probable cause
that an offense was committed by Jackson, and the matter was transferred to the
Seneca County Court of Common Pleas. (Id.). On October 11, 2017, the Seneca
County Grand Jury indicted Jackson on three counts: Count One of domestic
violence in violation of R.C. 2919.25(A), (D)(4), a third-degree felony; Count Two
of robbery in violation of R.C. 2911.02(A)(2), (B), a second-degree felony; and
Count Three of disrupting public services in violation of R.C. 2909.04(A)(3), (C), a
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fourth-degree felony. (Doc. No. 2). The parties stipulated to Jackson’s five
previous domestic-violence convictions prior to trial. (Doc. No. 39).
{¶4} The case proceeded to a jury trial on April 12 and 13, 2018. (Doc. No.
47). At the close of the State’s case, Jackson made a motion for acquittal under
Crim.R. 29, which was overruled by the trial court. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I,
at 196-197). On April 13, 2018, the jury found Jackson guilty of domestic violence
and disrupting public services, but found Jackson not guilty of robbery. (Doc. Nos.
47, 48, 49, 50, 51); (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. II, at 275). The trial court ordered a
presentence investigation. (Doc. No. 47); (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. II, at 277).
On April 13, 2018, the trial court filed its judgment entry of conviction. (Doc. No.
47).
{¶5} On May 22, 2018, the trial court sentenced Jackson to 36 months in
prison on Count One and 18 months in prison on Count Three and ordered that
Jackson serve the sentences concurrently. (Doc. No. 55); (May 22, 2018 Tr. at 8).
On May 23, 2018, the trial court filed its judgment entry of sentence. (Doc. No.
55).
{¶6} Jackson filed his notice of appeal on May 31, 2018. (Doc. No. 58). He
raises two assignments of error for our review, which we address together.
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Assignment of Error No. I
The verdict of the trial court was against the sufficiency of the
evidence as the state failed to prove each element of the offense
beyond a reasonable doubt.
Assignment of Error No. II
The verdict of the trial court was against the manifest weight of
the evidence when the credibility of the State’s only witness was
in question.
{¶7} In his assignments of error, Jackson argues that his domestic-violence
and disrupting-public-services convictions are based on insufficient evidence and
are against the manifest weight of the evidence.
{¶8} Manifest “weight of the evidence and sufficiency of the evidence are
clearly different legal concepts.” State v. Thompkins, 78 Ohio St.3d 380, 389
(1997). As such, we address each legal concept individually.
{¶9} “An appellate court’s function when reviewing the sufficiency of the
evidence to support a criminal conviction is to examine the evidence admitted at
trial to determine whether such evidence, if believed, would convince the average
mind of the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.” State v. Jenks, 61 Ohio
St.3d 259 (1991), paragraph two of the syllabus, superseded by state constitutional
amendment on other grounds, State v. Smith, 80 Ohio St.3d 89 (1997). Accordingly,
“[t]he relevant inquiry is whether, after viewing the evidence in a light most
favorable to the prosecution, any rational trier of fact could have found the essential
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elements of the crime proven beyond a reasonable doubt.” Id. “In deciding if the
evidence was sufficient, we neither resolve evidentiary conflicts nor assess the
credibility of witnesses, as both are functions reserved for the trier of fact.” State v.
Jones, 1st Dist. Hamilton Nos. C-120570 and C-120571, 2013-Ohio-4775, ¶ 33,
citing State v. Williams, 197 Ohio App.3d 505, 2011-Ohio-6267, ¶ 25 (1st Dist.).
See also State v. Berry, 3d Dist. Defiance No. 4-12-03, 2013-Ohio-2380, ¶ 19
(“Sufficiency of the evidence is a test of adequacy rather than credibility or weight
of the evidence.”), citing Thompkins at 386.
{¶10} On the other hand, in determining whether a conviction is against the
manifest weight of the evidence, a reviewing court must examine 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 and a new trial ordered.’” Thompkins at 387,
quoting State v. Martin, 20 Ohio App.3d 172, 175 (1st Dist.1983). A reviewing
court must, however, allow the trier of fact appropriate discretion on matters relating
to the weight of the evidence and the credibility of the witnesses. State v. DeHass,
10 Ohio St.2d 230, 231 (1967). When applying the manifest-weight standard
“[o]nly in exceptional cases, where the evidence ‘weighs heavily against the
conviction,’ should an appellate court overturn the trial court’s judgment.” State v.
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Haller, 3d Dist. Allen No. 1-11-34, 2012-Ohio-5233, ¶ 9, quoting State v. Hunter,
131 Ohio St.3d 67, 2011-Ohio-6524, ¶ 119.
{¶11} Jackson was convicted of domestic violence in violation of R.C.
2919.25(A), which provides, “No person shall knowingly cause or attempt to cause
physical harm to a family or household member.” Therefore, to find Jackson guilty
of domestic violence in violation of R.C. 2919.25(A), the State was required to
prove beyond a reasonable doubt that he “(1) knowingly caused or attempted to
cause, (2) physical harm, (3) to a family or household member.” State v. Miller, 3d
Dist. Seneca No. 13-12-52, 2013-Ohio-3194, ¶ 29. Jackson does not dispute
Fearing’s status as a family or household member. (Appellant’s Amended Brief at
5). Accordingly, our analysis will focus on the first two elements of the offense.
{¶12} “A person acts knowingly, regardless of purpose, when the person is
aware that the person’s conduct will probably cause a certain result or will probably
be of a certain nature. A person has knowledge of circumstances when the person
is aware that such circumstances probably exist.” R.C. 2901.22(B). “‘When
determining whether a defendant acted knowingly, his state of mind must be
determined from the totality of the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.’”
State v. Valladares, 3d Dist. Allen No. 1-17-49, 2018-Ohio-1250, ¶ 20, quoting
State v. Ingram, 10th Dist. Franklin No. 11AP-1124, 2012-Ohio-4075, ¶ 22.
Culpable mental states are frequently established through circumstantial evidence.
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Id., citing Ingram at ¶ 22. “[W]hether a person acts knowingly can only be
determined, absent a defendant’s admission, from all the surrounding facts and
circumstances, including the doing of the act itself.” Miller at ¶ 30, quoting State v.
Huff, 145 Ohio App.3d 555, 563 (1st Dist.2001), citing State v. Adams, 4th Dist.
Ross No. 94 CA 2041, 1995 WL 360247, *4 (June 8, 1995). “‘Physical harm to
persons’ means any injury, illness, or other physiological impairment, regardless of
its gravity or duration.” R.C. 2901.01(A)(3).
{¶13} In addition, Jackson was convicted of disrupting public services in
violation of R.C. 2909.04(A)(3), which provides, “No person, purposely by any
means or knowingly by damaging or tampering with any property, shall * * *
[s]ubstantially impair the ability of law enforcement officers, firefighters, rescue
personnel, emergency medical services personnel, or emergency facility personnel
to respond to an emergency or to protect and preserve any person or property from
serious physical harm.”
{¶14} “The language in R.C. 2909.04(A)(3) is clear in that it prohibits (1)
conduct that substantially impairs the ability of emergency-services personnel (2)
to either respond to an emergency or protect and preserve any person or property
from serious physical harm.” State v. Robinson, 124 Ohio St.3d 76, 2009-Ohio-
5937, ¶ 23. “The statute unambiguously specifies that in order for one to disrupt
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public services under R.C. 2909.04(A)(3), the conduct involved must be the
knowing damaging of or tampering with any property.” Id.{¶15} “‘Property’ means any property, real or personal, tangible or
intangible, and any interest or license in that property. ‘Property’ includes, but is
not limited to, * * * telecommunications devices * * *.” R.C. 2901.01(A)(10)(a).
“Telecommunications device” is defined as “any instrument, equipment, machine,
or other device that facilitates telecommunication, including, but not limited to, a *
* * telephone [or] cellular telephone * * *.” R.C. 2913.01(Y).
{¶16} In addition, under R.C. 2909.04(A)(3), a person can be guilty of
disrupting public services if they purposely substantially impair the ability of
emergency services personnel to respond to an emergency or to protect and preserve
any person or property from serious physical harm by any means. “A person acts
purposely when it is the person’s specific intention to cause a certain result * * *.”
R.C. 2901.22(A)
{¶17} At trial, the State first offered the testimony of Fearing. (Apr. 12-13,
2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 107). Fearing testified that Jackson moved into her house in
March 2017 and that the two were romantically involved and shared living
expenses. (Id. at 109). She stated that on September 26, 2017, she sent a text
message to Jackson ending their relationship, informing Jackson that she put his
belongings on the porch of her house for him to retrieve, and requesting that Jackson
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“not come back” to her house. (Id. at 111). Fearing then identified State’s Exhibit
1 as a copy of the text messages exchanged between Fearing and Jackson on the
evening of September 26, 2017. (Id. at 111-112). State’s Exhibit 1 includes text
messages sent from Fearing to Jackson informing him that his personal belongings
are on the porch and that Fearing does not desire a relationship with Jackson and
requesting that he “[t]ake [his] things and leave.” (State’s Ex. 1). Fearing also told
Jackson, “If you attempt to return or have any contact with me in person, via phone
or otherwise I will contact the police * * *.” (Id.). Fearing stated that in the weeks
preceding the incident she had observed “warning signs” causing her to be fearful
of Jackson. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 122).
{¶18} Fearing testified that she woke up on the morning of September 27,
2017 to Jackson “pounding” on the doors and knocking on the window. (Id. at 112-
113). At first, she attempted to ignore the knocking, as Jackson had come to her
house and knocked on the doors the night before and eventually left when she did
not answer the door. (Id. at 113). Fearing stated that she then heard a noise that
“sounded like a door busted in.” (Id. at 113, 120).
{¶19} Fearing testified that prior to the incident on the morning of September
27, 2017, her back door was functional and able to be shut and locked and that
following the incident, she could no longer shut or lock the back door. (Id. at 120).
Fearing then identified State’s Exhibit 4 as a photo of the doorframe of the back
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door of Fearing’s home following the incident on September 27, 2017. (Id. at 120-
121). State’s Exhibit 4 depicts a splintered doorframe. (State’s Ex. 4).
{¶20} When she heard the sound of the door opening, Fearing picked up her
cellular telephone to call 911. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 113). Fearing
testified that as she was putting her passcode in to unlock her phone, Jackson came
into her bedroom, threw Fearing’s cellular telephone against the wall, and began
striking her. (Id.). Fearing stated that Jackson hit her on her face, arms, and ribs
with his fist while she yelled loudly, trying to get the attention of her roommate who
Fearing later learned was not at home during the incident. (Id. at 113-115). Fearing
testified that Jackson told her to “shut the * * * fuck up or he would kill [her].” (Id.
at 115). Fearing stated that Jackson searched through her purse, took her cash, and
left the house. (Id. at 116).
{¶21} Fearing stated that after Jackson left the house, she went outside so she
could call the police from her neighbors’ house because she could not locate her
cellular telephone. (Id. at 117). When Fearing reached her porch, her neighbor,
Angela Brengartner (“Angela”) was outside and upon seeing Fearing, asked her if
she was okay and if Jackson had hit her. (Id. at 118). Fearing testified that Angela
yelled inside her house, asking her husband, Gene Brengartner (“Gene”), to call the
police, but he already had law enforcement on the phone. (Id.).
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{¶22} Fearing testified that as a result of the physical confrontation with
Jackson, she had red marks and a bump on her face, bumps on her arms, and red
marks on her ribs. (Id. at 119). Fearing identified Jackson in open court as the
individual who inflicted the injuries on her. (Id. at 114). Fearing then identified
State’s Exhibits 2 and 3 as photographs of her arm following the physical
confrontation with Jackson. (Id. at 119-120). State’s Exhibit 2 depicts Fearing’s
left arm with bruising and some swelling. (State’s Ex. 2). State’s Exhibit 3 is a
closer photo of Fearing’s left arm with a pen held up against her arm to demonstrate
the extent of the swelling at the site of the bruise. (State’s Ex. 3). Fearing described
her injuries as “serious but not severe” and denied receiving medical treatment for
her injuries. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 121).
{¶23} On cross-examination, Fearing identified Defendant’s Exhibit A,
which depicts Jackson’s belongings set out on Fearing’s porch. (Id. at 123);
(Defendant’s Ex. A). Fearing testified that she put Jackson’s belongings on the
porch on September 26, 2017 prior to sending Jackson the text message ending their
relationship. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 124).
{¶24} Jackson’s trial counsel reviewed State’s Exhibit 4 with Fearing who
stated that she found a missing metal piece from her splintered doorframe on the
floor in her home following the alleged incident. (Id. at 126-127). Fearing
identified Defendant’s Exhibits F and G as photographs of Fearing’s ribcage and
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right side which purport to depict bruising inflicted during the physical
confrontation. (Id. at 127-128); (Defendant’s Exs. F, G). Fearing stated that she
was on crutches for a sprained ankle at the time of the incident, but denied receiving
any bruises or abrasions on her arm and elbow when she sustained her ankle injury.
(Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 129).
{¶25} Fearing identified Defendant’s Exhibits H, I, J, and K as a series of
photographs depicting Fearing’s cellular telephone following the alleged incident.
(Id. at 131-134). Defendant’s Exhibit H depicts Fearing’s phone with the back cover
of the phone missing but with the internal battery still intact. (Defendant’s Ex. H).
Defendant’s Exhibit I depicts Fearing’s phone between her window and the
headboard of her bed–the location it was found following the incident. (Defendant’s
Ex. I). Defendant’s Exhibit J depicts the back cover of Fearing’s phone in the
location it was recovered following the incident, on her bedroom floor near her bed.
(Defendant’s Ex. J). Defendant’s Exhibit K is a photo of the front of Fearing’s
phone following the incident with the screen intact but with a small piece of the
upper left corner of the phone missing. (Defendant’s Ex. K). Fearing testified that
she located her phone between the headboard of her bed and her windowsill
following the incident when her friend called her phone and the phone rang,
allowing her to better ascertain its location. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 133-
134).
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{¶26} Fearing identified Defendant’s Exhibit L as a copy of the petition and
order granting Fearing a domestic violence civil protection order against Jackson on
September 29, 2017. (Id. at 136-138). Defendant’s Exhibit L includes a statement,
written by Fearing several days after the incident stating that she was struck by
Jackson “in the face, arm, neck, [and] ribs.” (Defendant’s Ex. L). (See Apr. 12-
13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 137).
{¶27} Fearing also identified Defendant’s Exhibit M as a copy of the written
statement Fearing gave to the police in the immediate aftermath of the incident on
September 27, 2017 where she stated she was struck in the “face, arm, and ribs,”
but did not state that she was struck in the neck. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at
138-139); (Defendant’s Ex. M). Upon review of Defendant’s Exhibits L and M,
Fearing admitted that there were “some differences” between the two documents.
(Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 139).
{¶28} On re-direct examination, Fearing stated that she did not include
certain details in both statements because she “didn’t think to put it in the statement”
and “[d]idn’t think it was pertinent.” (Id. at 141).
{¶29} Next, the State offered the testimony of Gene, Fearing’s next-door
neighbor. (Id. at 142-143). Gene testified that on the morning of September 27,
2017 he was drinking coffee inside his house when he “heard a bunch of banging
and noise.” (Id. at 144). Gene alerted his wife to the noise, went outside, and saw
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Jackson outside Fearing’s house. (Id. at 144-145). Gene stated that he “told
[Jackson] he’s making a lot of noise and waking people up.” (Id. at 144). Jackson
apologized and Gene went back into his house. (Id.). Although Gene did not know
Jackson by name at the time of the encounter, Gene recognized Jackson as Fearing’s
“boyfriend on and off” and had seen Jackson previously at Fearing’s house. (Id. at
145).
{¶30} Gene testified that when he returned to his house, he sent his wife,
Angela, to knock on Fearing’s door to check on her because “something didn’t seem
right.” (Id.). Gene stated that Angela went to check on Fearing and returned to the
house to tell him that Jackson had answered the door and told her that Fearing was
sleeping. (Id.). After Angela reported her encounter with Jackson, Gene stated that
Angela went back outside to smoke a cigarette. (Id. at 145-146). Gene testified that
Angela came back inside and told him that she heard someone screaming and asked
him to call the police. (Id. at 146). Gene stated that several minutes later, Fearing
knocked on the door. (Id.). Gene testified that Fearing “looked like she had been
beat[en] up” and had bruises on her face. (Id. at 146-147). Gene stated that Fearing
stayed at his house while waiting for law enforcement to arrive. (Id. at 147).
{¶31} On cross-examination, Gene stated that on the morning of September
27, 2017 he saw Jackson exit Fearing’s house to put a shoe box on the front porch
and then reenter the house. (Id. at 148). Gene testified that he gave a written
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statement when the police arrived and that Fearing was not present when he gave
his statement to the police. (Id. at 149-150).
{¶32} The State’s next witness, Angela, Gene’s wife, testified that on the
morning of September 27, 2017, she awoke to her husband telling her he heard a
noise outside and asking her to investigate. (Id. at 151-152). Angela stated that
she saw a person at Fearing’s house while she was outside smoking a cigarette, but
she initially assumed he lived at the house and was returning from work. (Id. at
153). Angela testified that upon Gene’s request, she walked over to Fearing’s house
and knocked on the door. (Id. at 154). Angela stated that nobody answered the door
right away, so she continued to knock. (Id.). Eventually, Jackson answered the
door and told Angela that Fearing was sleeping. (Id.). Angela stated that she told
Jackson to tell Fearing to come and see Gene when she wakes up. (Id. at 154-155).
Angela identified Jackson in open court as the individual that answered Fearing’s
door on the morning of the incident. (Id.).
{¶33} Angela stated that she returned to her home following her interaction
with Jackson and that, shortly thereafter, she stepped outside her house to smoke
another cigarette. (Id. at 155-156). Angela testified that while she was outside she
“heard screaming and crying” coming from Fearing’s house and that she went back
into her house and asked Gene to call the police. (Id.).
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{¶34} Angela testified that when she returned to Fearing’s house, Fearing
was outside acting “choke[d] up [and] scared” and told her that Jackson hit her and
stole her money. (Id. at 156). Angela stated that Fearing stayed at Angela’s house
while waiting for the police to arrive. (Id. at 156-157).
{¶35} On cross-examination, Angela identified Defendant’s Exhibit N as a
copy of the written statement Angela made to the police immediately following the
incident. (Id. at 157). Angela admitted that she did not include her interaction with
Jackson in the report because she was “shook up” in the aftermath of the incident
and did not remember her encounter with Jackson until later. (Id. at 157-158). (See
Defendant’s Ex. N). Angela stated that she had never spoken to or seen Jackson
prior to the day of the incident and that she had a friendly, “neighborly” relationship
with Fearing. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 159-160).
{¶36} The State’s next witness was Suzanne Brengartner (“Suzanne”), Gene
and Angela’s adult daughter, who lives with her parents in the house next door to
Fearing. (Id. at 161-162). Suzanne described her relationship with Fearing as “just
a neighbor” and stated that while they have conversations occasionally, they do not
have a close relationship. (Id. at 163). Suzanne testified that on the morning of
September 27, 2017, she got out of bed to use the bathroom when she heard banging
coming from Fearing’s house. (Id. at 163-164). Suzanne looked out the bathroom
window, which overlooks Fearing’s porch, and saw Jackson “banging on the door.”
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(Id.). Suzanne recognized Jackson as living next door with Fearing, and because
she assumed he forgot his keys and wanted in the house, Suzanne went back to bed
without further investigation. (Id. at 164). Suzanne did not know the name of the
man that she saw banging on Fearing’s door, but she identified Jackson in open
court as the person she saw on the day of the incident. (Id. at 164-165). Suzanne
stated that after she went back to bed, she was unable to fall back asleep because
she “kept hearing things” so she went to the window and saw Jackson walking to
the back of Fearing’s house. (Id. at 165-166). Following the incident, Suzanne
caught a glimpse of Fearing walking to Suzanne’s house but did not directly interact
with Fearing. (Id. at 167).
{¶37} On cross-examination, Suzanne stated that although she had never
interacted with Jackson, she knew that he lived in Fearing’s house because she had
seen him enter the house on previous occasions. (Id. at 169). Suzanne then
identified Defendant’s Exhibit O as a copy of the written statement Suzanne made
to the police immediately following the incident. (Id. at 170-172). (See Defendant’s
Ex. O).
{¶38} Finally, Sergeant Robert Bour (“Sgt. Bour”), a road patrol sergeant
with the Tiffin Police Department, testified that he was dispatched to Fearing’s
house on the morning of September 27, 2017. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 173-
176). Sgt. Bour described Fearing as being “distraught” when he encountered her
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and stated that Fearing told him that her estranged boyfriend, Jackson, broke into
her home, physically assaulted her, took money from her, and fled. (Id. at 176-177).
Sgt. Bour recalled that Fearing told him that she was struck in the “face, arms[,] and
ribs area” and that when Fearing asked Jackson why he was assaulting her he told
her, “Shut the fuck up or I will kill you.” (Id. at 177-178). Sgt. Bour described
observing bruising on Fearing’s arms as depicted in State’s Exhibits 2 and 3. (Id.
at 178-179). Sgt. Bour indicated that the injuries he observed on Fearing’s body
“appeared to * * * have just happened” due to the swelling at the site of the wound,
which in Sgt. Bour’s personal and professional experience “indicates a fresh
wound.” (Id. at 182-183). Sgt. Bour did not recall observing any bruising on
Fearing’s ribs or face. (Id. at 178). Sgt. Bour also observed damage to the back
door of Fearing’s residence and stated that in his professional experience, the
damage to Fearing’s door depicted in State’s Exhibit 4 would have required a great
amount of physical force. (Id. at 179-180). (See State’s Ex. 4).
{¶39} Sgt. Bour testified that Fearing told him that after Jackson entered her
bedroom, she was preparing to use her cell phone to call law enforcement when
Jackson “grabbed her phone and threw it against the wall which caused the phone
to break” and to become lodged in a location where she could not locate it. (Apr.
12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 180-181). Sgt. Bour was present when Fearing’s cell
phone was located and stated that her phone was “absolutely not” easily accessible
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to her after being thrown by Jackson and that the phone “was in such a position that
it was hard to reach.” (Id. at 181). Sgt. Bour opined that even if Fearing had been
able to ascertain the location of her cellular telephone, she would not have been able
to easily retrieve it due to its location. (Id.). He also testified that the device had
broken and was found in two pieces in separate areas of the room. (Id.).
{¶40} On cross-examination, Sgt. Bour stated that he was with Fearing when
her cell phone was located following the incident and that the phone was located
when it rang, allowing them to better ascertain its location. (Id. at 190). Sgt. Bour
stated that he did not fingerprint Fearing’s cell phone after it was found because
Fearing was able to render the device operable and needed access to it following the
incident. (Id. at 184). Sgt. Bour identified Defendant’s Exhibits P and Q as
photographs which depict Fearing’s back door following the incident. (Id. at 185-
187). (See Defendant’s Exs. P, Q).
{¶41} Thereafter, the State moved to admit State’s Exhibits 1, 2, 3, and 4 and
rested. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 194-195). State’s Exhibits 1, 2, 3, and 4
were admitted with no objection noted on the record. (Id.). The trial court then read
the parties’ Stipulation Exhibit into the record. (Id. at 194-195). The document,
which was signed by the State, Jackson, and Jackson’s trial counsel, stipulates that
Jackson had been previously convicted of five counts of domestic violence. (Id. at
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194-195). (See Stipulation Ex.). Next, Jackson made a Crim.R. 29 motion, which
the trial court overruled. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 196-197).
{¶42} Jackson testified in his defense. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. II, at 201).
Jackson stated that on the morning of September 26, 2017, he woke up at Fearing’s
house, where he was living at the time, and left for work. (Id. at 202). Jackson
testified that on the evening of September 26, 2017, while at work, he received a
text message from Fearing ending their relationship, asking him not to contact her,
and telling him he was no longer welcome in her house. (Id. at 203). Jackson
understood the text message from Fearing to indicate that she was kicking him out
of the house he had lived in since March 2017. (Id. at 203-204).
{¶43} Upon receiving the text message from Fearing, Jackson left work and
went to the police station to report the text message to law enforcement. (Id. at 204-
205). Jackson stated that he then stayed the night at a friend’s house. (Id. at 205).
{¶44} Jackson testified that on the morning of September 27, 2017, he rode
his bicycle to Fearing’s house to retrieve his belongings and “possibly gain entrance
into the house to make sure that all [his] belongings [were] there.” (Id.). Jackson
stated that he “banged on the door,” dislodging the doorknob. (Id. at 206). Jackson
testified that when Fearing did not answer the door, he continued to knock. (Id.).
Jackson stated he then went to the side door and tapped on the glass, but Fearing
still did not answer the door. (Id. at 207). Jackson testified that he then walked
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around to the back of the house and “bang[ed] on the door pretty hard” with his back
to the door because he was “upset.” (Id.). Jackson stated that when Fearing again
failed to answer the door, he came around to the front porch, where his belongings
were located, and went through his belongings. (Id. at 207-208).
{¶45} Jackson admitted that, while he was on the front porch with his
belongings, he interacted with Gene and apologized to Gene for the noise he was
making. (Id.). Jackson testified that after speaking to Gene, he returned to Fearing’s
house, slammed the screen door, went around to the back of the house a second
time, and left when Fearing did not answer the door because he was “in a time
crunch.” (Id. at 208). Jackson testified that after leaving Fearing’s house, he took
his belongings to his friend’s house and slept the rest of the day. (Id. at 209).
{¶46} Jackson stated on September 28, 2017, he rode his bicycle back to
Fearing’s house in the early morning to retrieve his belongings. (Id. at 209-210).
Jackson specifically denied having been inside Fearing’s residence on September
27 or 28, 2017. (Id. at 211).
{¶47} On cross-examination, Jackson admitted that he lived at Fearing’s
house for approximately six months, that he and Fearing were involved in a
romantic relationship, and that the two shared household expenses. (Id. at 212).
When shown State’s Exhibit 4, a photo of Fearing’s back door following the alleged
incident on September 27, 2017, Jackson could not confirm or deny if he caused the
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damage depicted in the photo because he had his back to the door while he was
“pounding” on it. (Id. at 212-213). He also stated that “the door never worked * *
* so it might look [like] somebody did something to it.” (Id.).
{¶48} Jackson denied being angry when he was at Fearing’s house the
morning of September 27, 2017, instead insisting he was “firm,” “a little
disappointed in certain areas,” and “trying to hurry and get [his] stuff done so [he]
[could] make it to work.” (Id. at 213). Jackson then confirmed that he testified that
he was hurrying while he was at Fearing’s house because he needed to go to work
and that he also testified that he went to his friend’s house and slept all day after
leaving Fearing’s house. (Id.). Jackson stated that the last time he saw Fearing
before his arrest was on the morning of September 26, 2017 before he left for work.
(Id.).
{¶49} Jackson was shown State’s Exhibits 2 and 3, which purport to show
injuries to Fearing’s arm. (Id.). (See State’s Exs. 2, 3). Jackson admitted that he
saw bruising on Fearing’s arm as depicted in State’s Exhibits 2 and 3, but stated that
he noticed the bruising prior to September 26, 2017 when Fearing had some blood
work done at the doctor’s office. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. II, at 213-214).
{¶50} Jackson testified that he wanted to enter Fearing’s house to confirm
that all of his belongings, especially a prescription, were out of the house. (Id. at
214-215). Jackson denied entering Fearing’s home on September 27, 2017 and
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opined that Fearing was lying about Jackson entering her home, striking her,
knocking her cell phone out of her hand, and stealing her money. (Id. at 215).
Jackson also denied making the threatening statement to Fearing on September 27,
2017 and hypothesized that she was taking that statement from a prior argument the
pair had on social media. (Id. at 215-216).
{¶51} Jackson admitted that he had a prior felony conviction for domestic
violence in 2012, a felony conviction for trafficking in cocaine in 2008, and a theft
conviction in 2012. (Id. at 216). With regard to Gene’s, Angela’s, and Suzanne’s
testimony, Jackson stated that he did not know if they were lying. (Id. at 217-218).
{¶52} Jackson stated that he took multiple trips to retrieve his belongings
from Fearing’s house and that, to the best of his knowledge, all of his belongings
were accounted for although he stated that he did not have the opportunity to fully
inventory his belongings. (Id. at 218).
{¶53} On redirect examination, Jackson denied striking or taking any money
from Fearing. (Id. at 219).
{¶54} Thereafter, Jackson moved to admit his exhibits, all of which were
admitted without objection, and rested. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 188); (Apr.
12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. II, at 220, 223). The State did not present any rebuttal
evidence. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. II, at 220).
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{¶55} We first review the sufficiency of the evidence supporting Jackson’s
domestic-violence and disrupting-public-services convictions. State v. Velez, 3d
Dist. Putnam No. 12-13-10, 2014-Ohio-1788, ¶ 68, citing State v. Wimmer, 3d Dist.
Marion No. 9-98-46, 1999 WL 3551590, *1 (Mar. 26, 1999). With regard to his
conviction for domestic violence, Jackson concedes that Fearing was a family or
household member and that he has prior convictions for domestic violence.
(Appellant’s Amended Brief at 5). However, Jackson challenges the sufficiency of
the evidence supporting whether he: (1) knowingly caused or attempted to cause
(2) physical harm to Fearing. (Id. at 5-6). Jackson argues that “the only evidence
adduced at trial that [he] caused physical harm to [Fearing] came from [Fearing
herself].” (Id. at 6). Moreover, Jackson argues that “[n]o other individuals
witnessed [the] alleged altercation,” that the purported injuries only “consisted of
‘redness’ and a ‘knotting,’” and that Fearing did not seek medical treatment for the
alleged injuries. (Id.).
{¶56} We disagree. There is sufficient evidence that Jackson knowingly
caused or attempted to cause physical harm to Fearing.
{¶57} Jackson’s argument that the evidence is insufficient because Fearing’s
testimony was the only evidence offered at trial to show that Jackson caused
physical harm to Fearing is without merit. First, “Ohio courts have held that the
testimony of one witness, if believed by the jury, is enough to support a conviction.”
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State v. Strong, 10th Dist. Franklin No. 09AP-874, 2011-Ohio-1024, ¶ 42, citing
State v. Dunn, 5th Dist. Stark No. 2008-CA-00137, 2009-Ohio-1688, ¶ 133. Fearing
testified at trial that Jackson broke into her home through the back door, came into
her bedroom, and hit her with his fist on her arm, face, and ribs causing red marks
on the side of her face, bruising and swelling on her arm, and red marks on her ribs.
(Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 113-115, 119). Thus, Fearing’s testimony alone, if
believed by the jury, is sufficient to demonstrate physical harm.
{¶58} Moreover, although Fearing and Jackson were the only individuals
present in Fearing’s house during the alleged incident, the State provided additional
witnesses and evidence corroborating Fearing’s testimony. For instance, State’s
Exhibits 2 and 3 depict bruising on Fearing’s arm. (See State’s Exs. 2, 3).
Furthermore, Sgt. Bour testified that he observed bruising and swelling on Fearing’s
arm and that in his personal and professional experience, the injuries he observed
on the morning of September 27, 2017 “appeared * * * to have just happened.”
(Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 177-179, 182-183). He also described Fearing’s
mental state in the aftermath of the incident as “distraught”. (Id. at 177).
Additionally, Gene, Angela, and Suzanne all testified that they heard a commotion
and saw Jackson at Fearing’s home on the morning of the incident. (Id. at 144-146,
153-156, 163-166). Angela testified that she heard screams coming from Fearing’s
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home, and Angela and Gene observed Fearing’s demeanor and injuries to her person
in the immediate aftermath of the incident. (Id. at 146-147, 155-157).
{¶59} Jackson’s argument that the State failed to demonstrate the requisite
degree of physical harm because Fearing’s injuries “consisted of ‘redness and
knotting’” and because Fearing did not seek medical treatment for her injuries also
fails. First, it has been noted that “R.C. 2919.25 does not require the state to prove
that a victim has sustained actual injury since a defendant can be convicted of
domestic violence for merely attempting to cause physical harm to a family
member.” (Emphasis sic.) State v. Nielsen, 66 Ohio App.3d 609, 612 (6th
Dist.1990). Moreover, under R.C. 2901.01(A)(3), “[p]hysical harm to persons” is
defined as “any injury * * * regardless of its gravity of duration.” (Emphasis
added.). Thus, Fearing’s testimony alone constitutes sufficient evidence that
Jackson was aware that by striking Fearing on her face, arms, and ribs, he was likely
to inflict some type of injury on Fearing, even if that injury ultimately proved to be
minor. See State v. Torman, 3d Dist. Putnam No. 12-15-10, 2016-Ohio-748, ¶ 31-
32 (concluding that the victim’s testimony that the defendant squeezed the victim’s
chin and jaw resulting in minor bruising was sufficient evidence of physical harm);
State v. Ward, 3d Dist. Seneca No. 13-07-21, 2008-Ohio-84, ¶ 15-21 (concluding
that testimony from a witness that the defendant “grabbed the victim by the throat
and threw her to the ground” was sufficient for a rational trier of fact to conclude
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that the physical harm element of R.C. 2919.25(A) was met); State v. Summers, 11th
Dist. Ashtabula No. 2002-A-0074, 2003-Ohio-5866, ¶ 31 (noting that the physical
harm element of R.C. 2919.25(A) was satisfied despite the victim’s failure to seek
medical treatment and the absence of corroborating evidence regarding the victim’s
injuries because the jury believed the victim’s testimony regarding the minor
bruising and “soreness or stiffness” she suffered).
{¶60} Accordingly, we find that the State presented sufficient evidence from
which the jury could conclude that Jackson knowingly caused or attempted to cause
physical harm to Fearing.
{¶61} We next review the sufficiency of the evidence supporting Jackson’s
disrupting-public-services conviction. Velez, 2014-Ohio-1788, at ¶ 68, citing
Wimmer, 1999 WL 3551590, at *1. With regard to his conviction for disrupting
public services, Jackson argues “there was no evidence submitted during trial that
he acted with purpose to impair any emergency service or law enforcement officer
from responding to any emergency.” (Appellant’s Amended Brief at 6). Jackson
asserts that insufficient evidence was presented at trial for a conviction because
“nothing was put forth at trial concerning [Jackson’s] purpose toward a cellular
telephone,” “[t]he only evidence concerning [Jackson’s] involvement with
[Fearing’s] cellular phone was that he ‘threw it against the wall,’” and any damage
to Fearing’s cell phone did not render it inoperable. (Id. at 7). Jackson also asserts
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that “[e]ven if the evidence is viewed [in] the light most favorable to the prosecution,
nothing in the record indicated what [Jackson’s] alleged purpose was with tossing
the cellular telephone.” (Id.).
{¶62} We conclude that the State presented sufficient evidence from which
the jury could find Jackson guilty of disrupting public services. First, “[i]n State v.
Robinson, the Supreme Court noted that the reference to ‘damaging or tampering
with any property’ in R.C. 2909.04(A) includes property such as a private telephone
or mobile phone.” State v. Walters, 5th Dist. Richland No. 17CA65, 2018-Ohio-
3456, ¶ 23, citing Robinson, 124 Ohio St.3d 76, 2009-Ohio-5937, at ¶ 29. Thus,
Fearing’s cellular telephone is property under R.C. 2909.04(A).
Once it is determined that a defendant damaged or tampered with a
victim’s telephone, the next consideration is whether that act
“substantially impairs the ability of law-enforcement officers,
firefighters, rescue personnel, emergency-medical-services
personnel, or emergency facility personnel to respond to an
emergency or to protect and preserve any person or property from
serious physical harm” in order to constitute a violation of R.C.
2909.04(A)(3).
Walters at ¶ 23, quoting Robinson at ¶ 32. “R.C. 2909.04(A)(3) * * * does not
require proof of a substantial impairment of the officers’ response time. The
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pertinent inquiry is directed toward their ability to respond.” (Emphasis sic.)
Robinson at ¶ 37.
{¶63} Fearing testified that she was in the process of unlocking her phone to
call law enforcement when Jackson took it and threw it against the wall. (Apr. 12-
13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 113). Ohio courts have held that “under certain
circumstances, the act of throwing a telephone can constitute ‘damaging or
tampering with any property’ as a matter of law.” State v. Hill, 7th Dist. Monroe
No. 09 MO 3, 2010-Ohio-4871, ¶ 24. “[T]he deciding factor in these cases is
whether the defendant’s conduct caused the victim to be unable to use that
telephone.” Id. at ¶ 25.
{¶64} Here, viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the
prosecution, Jackson’s conduct caused Fearing to be unable to use her cell phone.
Fearing testified that Jackson broke into her house through the back door, came into
her room as she was attempting to unlock her cellular telephone to call the police,
and threw her cell phone against the wall. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 113).
Fearing further testified that after her telephone was thrown, she was unable to
locate the device, and she went to her neighbor’s house following the incident so
that she could call law enforcement. (Id. at 117-118).
{¶65} Fearing stated that she located her phone between the headboard of
her bed and her windowsill when her friend called her phone, causing the phone to
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ring and allowing Fearing to better ascertain the phone’s location. (Id. at 133-134).
Sgt. Bour was present with Fearing when she located the phone and confirmed her
testimony regarding where Fearing’s cellular telephone was located. (Id. at 184-
185, 189-191). Sgt. Bour also testified that based on his observations of the room,
Fearing’s cell phone was “[a]bsolutely not” easily accessible to her where it was
located and that it took the pair some time to locate the cell phone once they entered
Fearing’s bedroom. (Id. at 181). Sgt. Bour also opined that even if Fearing had
known exactly where her cell phone was located, it would not have been easily
retrieved by her as “[i]t was in such a position that it was hard to reach.” (Id.).
Fearing and Sgt. Bour both testified that Fearing’s cell phone was found in two
pieces in two separate areas of the room and that the back cover of the cell phone
had broken off the device. (Id. at 131-132, 181). As such, Jackson’s actions caused
Fearing to be unable to use the phone.
{¶66} Moreover, despite Jackson’s argument to the contrary, the telephone
does not have to be rendered inoperable to uphold a conviction for disrupting public
services. See Hill, 2010-Ohio-4871, at ¶ 23, 25 (concluding that throwing the
victim’s cell phone into a neighboring yard in the dark of night “could support a
conviction for disruption of public services in violation of R.C. 2909.04(A)(3)” even
when the phone was not rendered inoperable); State v. Tajblik, 6th Dist. Wood No.
WD-14-064, 2016-Ohio-977, ¶ 5-6, 13-14 (finding sufficient evidence for a
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disrupting-public-services conviction where the defendant took the victim’s phone
and did not allow her to access it for a period of several hours); Walters, 2018-Ohio-
3456, at ¶ 25-28 (concluding that sufficient evidence existed to find the defendant
guilty of disrupting public services where the defendant took the victim’s cell phone
from her possession and abandoned it, undamaged, in their apartment). Therefore,
because Jackson’s actions caused Fearing to be unable to use her phone to call for
law enforcement or medical services, it is irrelevant that Fearing’s phone was
functional when it was found following the incident.
{¶67} In addition, we find that the evidence presented is sufficient to
establish the element of “substantial impairment.” Here, Fearing testified that she
was in the process of unlocking her phone to contact law enforcement when Jackson
came into her room and threw her phone against the wall. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr.,
Vol. I, at 113). As a result of Jackson throwing her phone, Fearing was unable to
call law enforcement for assistance. (Id. at 117-118). Therefore, Fearing was
unable to give any information to law enforcement, even partial information, before
Jackson took her phone and threw it. Fearing stated that she left her house following
the incident to call law enforcement from her neighbor’s house since she was unable
to locate her cell phone. (Id.). In fact, law enforcement was contacted by Fearing’s
neighbors who heard a disturbance coming from Fearing’s residence and not by
Fearing herself. (Id. at 146). Moreover, it was not until law enforcement was
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present on the scene that Fearing was able to locate her phone. (Id. at 184-185, 189-
190). Thus, the State presented sufficient evidence to establish the “substantial
impairment” element of R.C. 2909.04(A)(3). See Walters at ¶ 25.
{¶68} Finally, the State presented sufficient evidence from which the trier of
fact could have concluded that, by taking Fearing’s cell phone from her and
damaging it, it was Jackson’s purpose to substantially impair the ability of
emergency-services personnel to respond to an emergency or to protect and preserve
Fearing or her property from serious physical harm. Although R.C. 2909.04(A)
requires only that a person knowingly substantially impair emergency-services
personnel by damaging or tampering with any property, proof that a person
purposely substantially impaired emergency-services personnel by damaging or
tampering with any property will suffice. See R.C. 2901.22(E) (“When knowledge
suffices to establish an element of an offense, then purpose is also sufficient
culpability for such element.”).
{¶69} Here, the State presented sufficient evidence from which the trier of
fact could conclude that Jackson specifically intended to substantially impair
emergency-services personnel by damaging or tampering with Fearing’s cell phone.
First, Jackson was on notice that Fearing intended to call law enforcement on
Jackson if he attempted to contact Fearing again in any way. (See State’s Ex. 1).
Moreover, per Fearing’s testimony, Jackson’s first action upon confronting Fearing
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after violently breaking into her home was to wrench her cell phone from her hands
and throw it out of her reach. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 113). A trier of fact
could reasonably infer that the perpetrator of a break-in who takes a cell phone from
the hands of the resident of the house in the immediate wake of the break-in does so
with the purpose of preventing the resident from contacting law enforcement.
{¶70} Accordingly, viewing the evidence in a light most favorable to the
prosecution, a rational trier of fact could have found that Jackson committed the
offense of disrupting public services under R.C. 2909.04(A)(3).
{¶71} Having concluded that Jackson’s domestic-violence and disrupting-
public-services convictions are based on sufficient evidence, we next address
Jackson’s argument that his convictions are against the manifest weight of the
evidence. See Velez, 2014-Ohio-1788, at ¶ 76.
{¶72} With regard to his domestic-violence conviction, Jackson reasserts his
arguments made in his first assignment of error. (Appellant’s Amended Brief at 8).
Specifically, he argues that “[Fearing] was the sole witness presented by the state
concerning the causation of physical harm to [Fearing]” and that “[e]ven if the jury
was able to determine [Fearing] had injuries at the time [Sgt. Bour] conducted his
investigation, the causation element was not met.” (Id.).
{¶73} After weighing the evidence and evaluating the credibility of the
witnesses, with appropriate deference to the trier of fact’s credibility determination,
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we cannot say that the jury clearly lost its way and created a manifest injustice with
regard to the domestic-violence conviction. Thus, we conclude that Jackson’s
domestic-violence conviction is not against the manifest weight of the evidence as
the evidence weighs in favor of a finding that Jackson committed domestic violence
against Fearing.
{¶74} First, Jackson’s argument that his domestic-violence conviction is
against the manifest weight of the evidence because “[Fearing] was the sole witness
presented by the state concerning the causation of physical harm to [Fearing]” is
without merit. As discussed above, Fearing testified that Jackson struck her on her
arm, face, and ribs resulting in red marks on the side of Fearing’s face, bumps on
her arm, and red marks on her ribs. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 113-114, 118-
119). In addition, State’s Exhibits 2 and 3 depict bruising on Fearing’s arm. (State’s
Exs. 2, 3). Moreover, the State’s additional witnesses corroborate Fearing’s
testimony. Sgt. Bour indicated that he observed bruising and swelling on Fearing’s
arm the morning of the incident, and Gene testified that when he saw Fearing
immediately following the alleged incident, “[s]he looked like she had been beaten
up.” (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 146, 178-179). Fearing’s three next-door
neighbors all testified that they observed Jackson at Fearing’s house the morning of
September 27, 2017 and heard a commotion coming from Fearing’s house
coinciding with the time of the alleged physical encounter. (Id. at 144-145, 153-
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156, 163-166). Moreover, Sgt. Bour indicated that in his personal and professional
experience, the bruising and swelling he observed on Fearing’s arm the morning of
September 27, 2017 appeared to be consistent with a “fresh wound.” (Id. at 182).
{¶75} On the other hand, although Jackson admitted that he was at Fearing’s
residence on the morning of September 27, 2017, he denied entering Fearing’s
residence or causing any physical injury to Fearing. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. II,
at 205, 213-216, 219). Furthermore, he opined that the bruising observed in State’s
Exhibits 2 and 3 was the result of blood work Fearing had done prior to the day of
the alleged incident. (Id. at 213-214).
{¶76} In sum, there is undeniably conflict between the State’s version and
Jackson’s version of the events of September 27, 2017. Consequently, this case
hinges on witness credibility. “[T]he weight to be given the evidence and the
credibility of the witnesses are primarily for the trier of the facts.” DeHass, 10 Ohio
St.2d 230 at paragraph one of the syllabus. “‘When examining witness credibility,
“the choice between credible witnesses and their conflicting testimony rests solely
with the finder of fact and an appellate court may not substitute its own judgment
for that of the finder of fact.”’” State v. White, 3d Dist. Seneca No. 13-16-21, 2017-
Ohio-1488, ¶ 50, quoting In re N.Z., 11th Dist. Lake Nos. 2010-L-023, 2010-L-035
and 2010-L-041, 2011-Ohio-6845, ¶ 79, quoting State v. Awan, 22 Ohio St.3d 120,
123 (1986). “‘A fact finder is free to believe all, some, or none of the testimony of
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each witness appearing before it.’” Id., quoting In re N.Z. at ¶ 79, citing State v.
Thomas, 11th Dist. Lake No. 2004-L-176, 2005-Ohio-6570, ¶ 29. See also State v.
Missler, 3d Dist. Hardin No. 6-14-06, 2015-Ohio-1076, ¶ 44, quoting State v. Daley,
3d Dist. Seneca No. 13-13-26, 2014-Ohio-2128, ¶ 68, quoting State v. Antill, 176
Ohio St. 61, 67 (1964). ““‘A verdict is not against the manifest weight of the
evidence because the [jury] chose to believe the State’s witnesses rather than the
defendant’s version of the events.”’” Missler at ¶ 44, quoting State v. Bean, 9th
Dist. Summit No. 26852, 2014-Ohio-908, ¶ 15, quoting State v. Martinez, 9th Dist.
Wayne No. 12CA0054, 2013-Ohio-3189, ¶ 16. As such, the jury was able to assign
whatever credibility it deemed appropriate to the witnesses presented. Therefore,
the fact that the jury believed Fearing and the State’s witnesses does not make
Jackson’s domestic-violence conviction against the weight of the evidence, even
when Fearing and Jackson were allegedly the only individuals inside the house
when the alleged incident occurred.
{¶77} With regard to his disrupting-public-services conviction, Jackson
asserts “there was no evidence presented at trial as to [his] purpose” regarding
Fearing’s phone. (Appellant’s Amended Brief at 9). Specifically, Jackson argues
that “[n]othing was presented alleging that [Fearing] communicated what she was
attempting to do with her cellular telephone to [Jackson] at the time he allegedly
took the cellular telephone.” (Id.). Further, Jackson argues that Fearing’s cellular
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phone “continued to be in working order” and was able to send and receive calls
following the alleged incident. (Id.).
{¶78} We conclude that Jackson’s disrupting-public-services conviction is
not against the manifest weight of the evidence. Jackson’s argument that “there was
no evidence presented at trial as to [his] purpose” with respect to Fearing’s cell
phone is without merit. “‘The determination of a defendant’s mental state, absent
some comment on his or her part, must of necessity be determined by the nature of
the act when viewed in conjunction with the surrounding facts and circumstances.’”
State v. Hartman, 2d Dist. Montgomery No. 26609, 2016-Ohio-2883, ¶ 27, quoting
State v. Mundy, 99 Ohio App.3d 275, 288 (2d Dist.1994), citing State v. Lott, 51
Ohio St.3d 160, 168 (1990). This includes whether the defendant acted purposely
in undertaking a given course of conduct. See, e.g., id. at ¶ 27-33. Here, from the
facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged incident, it can be inferred that by
wrenching Fearing’s cell phone from her hands, damaging it by throwing it against
a wall, and rendering it inaccessible, Jackson specifically intended to substantially
impair the ability of law enforcement officers to prevent serious physical harm to
Fearing’s person or her property.
{¶79} First, Fearing testified that she was fearful of Jackson due to “warning
signs” she had observed in the previous weeks. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at
122). It is undisputed that Fearing terminated her relationship with Jackson on
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September 26, 2017 via text message and told Jackson, “[i]f you attempt to return
or have any contact with me in person, via phone or otherwise I will contact the
police * * *.” (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 111-112); (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr.,
Vol. II, at 203); (State’s Ex. 1). Fearing also testified that in the early morning of
September 27, 2017, she heard pounding on her doors and windows followed by a
noise from the back door “sound[ing] like a door busted in.” (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr.,
Vol. I, at 113). Fearing’s next-door neighbors likewise testified that they heard loud
noises coming from Fearing’s house and observed Jackson pounding on the doors.
(Id. at 144-145, 154-156, 163-165). Fearing further testified that Jackson appeared
in her bedroom moments later while she was in the process of unlocking her cell
phone to call law enforcement. (Id. at 113). Fearing stated that Jackson’s first action
upon entering the room was to remove her cell phone from her hands and throw it
at the wall, rendering the device inaccessible. (Id.). Sgt. Bour corroborated
Fearing’s testimony that the phone was found in two pieces and in an inaccessible
location. (Id. at 180-182). Defendant’s Exhibits H, I, and J corroborate Fearing and
Sgt. Bour’s testimony regarding the location and condition of the device following
the alleged incident. (See Defendant’s Exs. H, I, J). As discussed above, the trier
of fact was entitled to credit all, part, or none of Fearing’s testimony. White, 2017-
Ohio-1488, at ¶ 50.
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{¶80} Fearing’s testimony presents a scenario in which a person violently
breaks into a home and, on first encountering the resident, deprives that person of
their means to call for help. When a person breaks into a residence and their first
act is to deprive the occupant of their means for contacting the outside world, a
natural and probable inference is that they did so with the intention of preventing
the occupant from calling the police.
{¶81} Moreover, even though Fearing did not testify that she verbally
communicated to Jackson her intention to call law enforcement with her cell phone
when he entered her bedroom, her purpose can be inferred from the totality of the
circumstances. Fearing had terminated her relationship with Jackson the day before
and had explicitly told Jackson that she would contact the police if he attempted to
return to her home or contact her. (Apr. 12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 111-112); (State’s
Ex. 1). Therefore, Jackson had been put on notice that Fearing intended to call the
police if he returned to her residence or made contact with her. Furthermore, as the
door to her house had just been broken in and her estranged boyfriend had entered
her bedroom despite being told the day before not to come back to the residence,
the totality of the circumstances indicate that Fearing’s purpose in unlocking her
cellular telephone was to contact law enforcement.
{¶82} Finally, Jackson’s argument that his disrupting-public-services
conviction is against the manifest weight of the evidence because Fearing’s cell
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Case No. 13-18-18
phone “continued to be in working order” and was able to send and receive calls
following the alleged incident also fails. It is undisputed that Fearing’s cell phone
was able to send and receive telephone calls following the alleged incident. (Apr.
12-13, 2018 Tr., Vol. I, at 133-134, 184, 190). However, Jackson’s argument
regarding the functionality of Fearing’s cell phone following the alleged incident
goes largely to the sufficiency of the evidence supporting Jackson’s disrupting-
public-services conviction and was accordingly addressed with regard to the
sufficiency of the evidence. In addition, we note that Fearing and Sgt. Bour testified
that Fearing’s cell phone was not recovered until after the alleged incident and after
law enforcement had arrived on the scene. (Id. at 117, 133-134, 183, 190).
Moreover, Fearing and Sgt. Bour also testified that the cell phone was found in two
pieces, with the back cover broken off the device. (Id. at 131-132, 181).
Defendant’s Exhibits H, I, and J, which depict Fearing’s cell phone in the state in
which it was found, are consistent with Sgt. Bour’s and Fearing’s testimony
regarding the condition of Fearing’s cell phone when it was found. (See
Defendant’s Exs. H, I, J). Therefore, having weighed the evidence and all
reasonable inferences, we conclude that Jackson’s disrupting-public-services
conviction is not against the manifest weight of the evidence.
{¶83} For the foregoing reasons, Jackson’s first and second assignments of
error are overruled.
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Case No. 13-18-18
{¶84} Having found no error prejudicial to the appellant herein in the
particulars assigned and argued, we affirm the judgment of the trial court.
Judgment Affirmed
ZIMMERMAN, P.J. and SHAW, J., concur.
/jlr
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