State v. Berry

[Cite as State v. Berry, 2021-Ohio-1132.]
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO
THIRD APPELLATE DISTRICT
UNION COUNTY
STATE OF OHIO,
CASE NO. 14-20-05
PLAINTIFF-APPELLEE,
v.
JONATHAN E. BERRY, OPINION
DEFENDANT-APPELLANT.
Appeal from Union County Common Pleas Court
Trial Court No. 2019-CR-0028
Judgment Affirmed
Date of Decision: April 5, 2021
APPEARANCES:
Rocky Ratliff for Appellant
Andrew M. Bigler for Appellee
Case No. 14-20-05
WILLAMOWSKI, P.J.
{¶1} Defendant-appellant Jonathan E. Berry (“Berry”) appeals the
judgment of the Union County Court of Common Pleas. In this case, Berry was
charged with five counts of aggravated trafficking in drugs and one count of
involuntary manslaughter. Doc. 1. Four of the counts of aggravated trafficking in
drugs arose from controlled buys. Ex. 202, 209, 215, 222. The fifth count of
aggravated trafficking in drugs arose from an alleged transaction between Berry and
Ashley Russell (“Ashley”). After this alleged transaction, Ashley died from a drug
overdose, giving rise to the charge of involuntary manslaughter. Doc. 1. On appeal,
Berry raises ten assignments of error that challenge various aspects of his jury trial.
For the reasons set forth below, the judgment of the trial court is affirmed.
Facts and Procedural History
{¶2} Ashley and her two children lived with her parents in Marysville,
Ohio. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 93. Ex. 230. She and her two children moved into her
parents’ house in Marysville, Ohio after she began battling a drug addiction. Jan.
14 Vol. II Tr. 28, 30-31. Ex. 256. Ashley was friends with Berry and would drive
him places since he did not have a driver’s license. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 36, 50, 132.
Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 328. Ashley’s mother, Tonya Russell (“Tonya”), suspected that
Ashley and Berry were doing drugs together. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 38. Tonya texted
Berry “[t]o tell him * * * that I knew he was selling her [Ashley] drugs or giving
them to her * * * and I wanted it to stop.” Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 38. However, in
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response, Berry insisted that he was “cutting ties with * * * dope” and that they were
just “spending time together.” Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 52.
{¶3} Deputy Rod Wilson (“Deputy Wilson”) of the Union County Sheriff’s
Office testified that he became acquainted with Berry through several complaints
that his office had received. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 5, 7. In February of 2017, the police
conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle and found methamphetamines in the possession
of G.C. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 7. Pursuant to an agreement with the Union County
Prosecutor’s Office (“defendant’s agreement”), G.C. consented to work with the
police as a confidential informant. Ex. 229. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 8. G.C. would
participate in four controlled-buy operations that had Berry as their target. Jan. 13
Vol. II Tr. 7.
{¶4} On April 7, 2017, Deputy Wilson issued $80.00 to G.C. to purchase
methamphetamines from Berry. Ex. 199, 200, 202. G.C. walked to an area behind
a local repair shop where he had arranged a meeting with Berry. Ex. 202. G.C.
returned to Deputy Wilson with $40.00 and a white powdery substance. Ex. 199,
200. This substance was later tested and found to contain methamphetamines. Ex.
225. See Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 21-24, 27-28, 35-39.
{¶5} On April 27, 2017, Deputy Wilson issued $80.00 to G.C. to purchase
methamphetamines from Berry. Ex. 206, 207. G.C. walked to a nearby parking lot
at a local shopping plaza where he had arranged to meet Berry. Ex. 209. G.C.
returned to Deputy Wilson with $20.00 and a crystalline substance. Ex. 206. This
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substance was later tested and found to contain methamphetamines. Ex. 226. See
Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 56-60, 64-65, 70-71.
{¶6} On June 16, 2017, Deputy Wilson issued $80.00 to G.C. to purchase
methamphetamines from Berry. Ex. 212, 213, 215. G.C. again walked to a nearby
parking lot at a local shopping plaza where he had arranged to meet Berry. Ex. 215.
G.C. returned to Deputy Wilson with a crystalline substance and no excess funds in
his possession. Ex. 212, 213. This substance was later tested and found to contain
methamphetamines. Ex. 227. See Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 75, 77-80. This was the final
controlled-buy operation involving Berry before Ashley’s death. Ex. 258.
{¶7} On June 18, 2017, Berry engaged in a text exchange with Ashley. Ex.
173. Berry texted Ashley: “I got ur Chinese.” Ex. 173. At trial, Detective Seth
McDowell (“Detective McDowell”) of the Union County Sheriff’s Office testified
that “Chinese” is used as a name for a compound that “contains fentanyl, whether it
is made up of heroin and/or methamphetamine.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 350. During
this exchange, Ashley texted, “So how can I get that from you?” Ex. 177. Berry
then texted, “Give me a few want to wait till on the morning and come get it after u
drop ur boys.” Ex. 179.
{¶8} On June 19, 2017 at 7:40 A.M., the following text exchange took place
between Ashley and Berry:
[Berry]: I. In town babe I need u
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[Ashley]: Ok im getting ready to take [my son] to daycare. Where
will you be?
[Berry]: Parking g lot of the Dollar tree * * *
[Ashley]: I am hurrying. My mom doesnt leave until 9 so shes
still here.
Doc. 193, 194. At 8:48 A.M., the following exchange occurred:
[Ashley]: Did you bring that gor meet
[Ashley]: Im righy by yhe YMCA
[Berry]: Coming out of house.e depot
[Berry]: Home depot
[Ashley]: Im here in front of laen mowers
[Berry]: Coming
Doc. 195. At trial, the State introduced footage from a security camera at Home
Depot that captured images of Berry and Ashley walking together. Ex. 248. Jan.
16 Vol. I Tr. 61-62.
{¶9} At around 1:00 P.M., Ashley’s Aunt, Lisa Crumb (“Crumb”), stopped
by Ashley’s residence during her (Crumb’s) lunch break from work. Jan. 15 Vol.
II Tr. 298. Crumb testified that she went to Ashley’s house to borrow a hair dryer.
Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 299. She further stated that, at the time of her visit, Ashley’s
children were in the swimming pool. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 299. During their
conversation, Crumb learned that Ashley had met Berry that morning at Home
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Depot. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 299-300. After using the hair dryer, Crumb then returned
to work. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 300.
{¶10} On the afternoon of June 19, 2017, Ashley’s aunt, Gayla Wooldridge
(“Wooldridge”), was visiting her parents (“Ashley’s grandparents”) at their house.
Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 270-271. Ashley’s grandparents lived down the street from
Ashley. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 270-271. Wooldridge stated that, during her visit,
Ashley’s six year old son came to Ashley’s grandparents’ house to report “that he
thought something was wrong with Ashley.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 270-271. See Jan.
14 Vol. II Tr. 31. Wooldridge then went to check on Ashley. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr.
271. Wooldridge went to Ashley’s house with her nephew, M.R. Jan. 15 Vol. II
Tr. 276.
{¶11} When Wooldridge arrived at Ashley’s residence, the front door was
open. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 271. Wooldridge walked into the house and went to the
upstairs bathroom. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 271. The bathroom door was locked, so she
and M.R. found the key and opened the door. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 217. They then
saw Ashley lying on the floor in the bathroom. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 271. Ashley was
unresponsive and was, by that point, turning blue. Ex. O. Wooldridge then called
9-1-1. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 272.
{¶12} The emergency squad arrived at Ashley’s residence and transported
her to the hospital where she was declared dead at 5:07 P.M. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 7,
18, 124. Crumb went to the hospital when she heard about Ashley. Jan. 15 Vol. II
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Tr. 300. Crumb spoke with the law enforcement officers who were at the hospital
and informed them that Ashley had met Berry that morning at Home Depot. Jan.
15 Vol. II Tr. 300.
{¶13} The police examined the bathroom where Ashley was found. Jan. 16
Vol. I Tr. 16. Corporal Nathan Stone (“Corporal Stone”) discovered a hypodermic
needle, a Q-tip with the end ripped off, and a make-up bag behind the bathroom
door. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 18. Ex. 234. He determined that this make-up bag was,
based on its contents, a “rig bag.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 19. At trial, he explained that
a rig bag contains “all the items [a drug user] would need to shoot up, smoke,
whatever you want to administer.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 19. During the investigation
into Ashley’s death, the police recovered Ashley’s cell phone from her residence.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 23. Her cell phone contained text messages that indicated she was
a drug user and was in contact with Berry. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 31, 36.
{¶14} Corporal Stone also discovered a white powdery substance that was
in a plastic baggie that had been placed into another plastic baggie. Jan. 16 Vol. I
Tr. 33. Ex. 247. He stated that this package “looked like * * * it had been packaged
for distribution” and looked like it had “never been opened.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 122.
This white powdery substance was subsequently tested and found to contain
fentanyl and ketamine. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 69. Ex. 253.
{¶15} The police decided to have G.C. perform a fourth controlled-buy
operation with Berry as part of the investigation into Ashley’s death. Jan. 13 Vol.
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II Tr. 89. On June 21, 2017, Deputy Wilson issued $85.00 to G.C. to purchase a
gram of methamphetamines from Berry. Ex. 221, 222. This time G.C. went to
Berry’s residence for the drug transaction. Ex. 222. During this operation, G.C.
spoke with Berry about Russell. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 60.
{¶16} A recording of this conversation was admitted at trial. Ex. 224.
Speaking to G.C., Berry said that he had seen Ashley on the day of her death and
that she had given him $15.00 for a ride to Columbus. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 60. G.C.
returned from Berry’s house with a crystalline substance and no excess funds in his
possession. Ex. 221, 219. This substance was later tested and found to contain
methamphetamines. Ex. 228. See Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 89-91, 93-97.
{¶17} On August 29, 2017, Dr. Bryan D. Casto (“Dr. Casto”) conducted a
postmortem examination of Ashley’s remains. Ex. 255. He concluded that the
cause of Ashley’s death was “[m]ultiple drug intoxication (fentanyl, amphetamine/
methamphetamine).” Ex. 255. On September 5, 2017, Dr. David Applegate (“Dr.
Applegate”), the Union County Coroner, determined that Ashley’s death had been
an accident, having resulted from a drug overdose. Ex. 258.
{¶18} On February 15, 2019, Berry was indicted on five counts of
aggravated trafficking in drugs in violation of R.C. 2925.03(A)(1), felonies of the
fourth degree. Doc. 1. Four of these counts of aggravated trafficking in drugs arose
from the four controlled-buy operations between G.C. and Berry. Mar. 6 Tr. 32.
One of these charges for aggravating trafficking in drugs arose from the alleged
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transaction between Ashley and Berry at Home Depot on June 19, 2017. Mar. 6 Tr.
32. Berry was also indicted on one count of involuntary manslaughter in violation
of R.C. 2903.04(A), a felony of the first degree. Doc. 1.
{¶19} Berry’s jury trial was held in between January 13 and January 16,
2020. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 1. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 1. At trial, the State called G.C. to
testify. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 114. However, G.C. invoked his Fifth Amendment right
against self-incrimination and refused to testify. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 126. The State
then granted G.C. immunity “as it relates to, one, any questions asked by the
prosecutor this afternoon; and, two, specifically as it relates to any events”
connected to the four controlled-buy operations. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 134. The trial
court then informed G.C. that he did not have a Fifth Amendment right against self-
incrimination in this context and that he must testify or be found in contempt. Jan.
14 Vol. I Tr. 135. However, G.C. still refused to testify. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 152.
The trial court then held G.C. in contempt. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 160.
{¶20} After the State rested, the Defense made Crim.R. 29 motions for each
of the charges against Berry. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 198-199. The trial court overruled
these motions. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 203. The jury then returned verdicts of guilty for
each of the six charges against Berry. Doc. 194-199, 201.
{¶21} On March 6, 2020, Berry appeared before the trial court for
sentencing. March 6 Tr. 1. The trial court determined that charge of aggravated
trafficking in drugs that arose from the alleged transaction between Ashley and
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Berry merged with the charge of involuntary manslaughter. Doc. 206. The State
elected to proceed to sentencing on the charge of involuntary manslaughter. March
6 Tr. 33. The trial court imposed an eleven-year prison term for Berry’s conviction
for involuntary manslaughter and then imposed eighteen-month prison sentences
for each of Berry’s remaining convictions. Doc. 206. The trial court then ordered
these prison terms to be served consecutively. Doc. 206. Thus, Berry was sentenced
to a “combined prison term * * * [of] 17 years.” Doc. 206.
{¶22} The appellant filed his notice of appeal on March 26, 2020. Doc. 215.
On appeal, Berry raises the following ten assignments of error:
First Assignment of Error
The record contained insufficient evidence to support a conviction
for aggravated possession of drugs in violation of R.C. 2925.03
and for involuntary manslaughter in violation of R.C. 2903.04.1
Second Assignment of Error
The conviction for aggravated possession of drugs in violation of
R.C. 2925.03 and for involuntary manslaughter in violation of
R.C. 2903.04 was contrary to the manifest weight of the evidence.
Third Assignment of Error
The trial court erred when it failed to give any jury instruction
regarding causation.
Fourth Assignment of Error
1
In the appellant’s brief, the assignment of error states that Berry is challenging his conviction for
“aggravated possession of drugs.” Appellant’s Brief, 6, 11. However, Berry was indicted on five counts of
aggravated trafficking in drugs. Doc. 1. We will conduct our analysis accordingly.
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The trial court erred when it failed to grant a mistrial after the
jury was tainted by the statements from a potential juror.
Fifth Assignment of Error
The trial court erred when it failed to grant a mistrial or a
continuance due to late disclosure of the confidential informant’s
agreement.
Sixth Assignment of Error
The trial court incorrectly ruled as it pertained to confidential
informant’s constitutional right against self-incrimination and
the subsequent criminal contempt findings prejudiced appellant.
Seventh Assignment of Error
The trial court erred when it allowed text messages to be entered
in violation of appellant’s confrontation clause and where hearsay
was offered for the truth of the matter asserted.
Eighth Assignment of Error
The trial court erred when it allowed family members to be
present during the trial prior to their testimony being given in
violation of any separation of witnesses.
Ninth Assignment of Error
Appellant was denied his constitutional right to the effective
assistance of counsel.
Tenth Assignment of Error
The trial court erred when appellant received the maximum
sentence.
First Assignment of Error
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{¶23} Berry argues that one of his convictions for aggravated trafficking in
drugs and his conviction for involuntary manslaughter are not supported by
sufficient evidence.
Legal Standard
{¶24} A challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence supporting a conviction
“is a question of law and a ‘test of adequacy rather than credibility or weight of the
evidence.’” State v. Beaver, 3d Dist. Marion No. 9-17-37, 2018-Ohio-2438, ¶ 40,
quoting State v. Berry, 3d Dist. Defiance No. 4-12-03, 2013-Ohio-2380, ¶ 19. “The
sufficiency-of-the-evidence analysis addresses the question of whether adequate
evidence was produced for the case to be considered by the trier of fact and, thus,
whether the evidence was ‘legally sufficient to support the verdict * * *.’” State v.
Luebrecht, 3d Dist. Putnam No. 12-18-02, 2019-Ohio-1573, ¶ 36, quoting State v.
Worthington, 3d Dist. Hardin No. 6-15-04, 2016-Ohio-530, ¶ 12. On appeal, the
applicable standard
is whether, after viewing the evidence in the light most favorable
to the prosecution, any rational trier of fact could have found that
the essential elements of the crime were proven beyond a
reasonable doubt.
State v. Brown, 3d Dist. Hancock No. 5-17-19, 2018-Ohio-899, ¶ 8, quoting State
v. Plott, 2017-Ohio-38, 80 N.E.3d 1108, ¶ 73 (3d Dist.).
Legal Analysis: Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs
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{¶25} To establish a conviction for the offense of aggravated trafficking in
drugs in violation of R.C. 2925.03(A)(1), the State must prove that the defendant
“[1] knowingly * * * [2] [sold] or offer[ed] to sell [3] a controlled substance or a
controlled substance analog.” R.C. 2925.03(A)(1), (C)(1)(a). On appeal, Berry
does not challenge any of the four charges of aggravated trafficking in drugs that
arose from the controlled buys with G.C. He only challenges the charge that arose
from his June 19, 2017 meeting with Ashley at Home Depot.2
{¶26} In this case, the State introduced text messages that had been
exchanged between Ashley and Berry on June 18 and June 19, 2017. At trial, Lela
J. Berry (“Lela”), Berry’s mother, was called as a witness and confirmed that the
phone number associated with these texts was, in fact, Berry’s. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr.
338. At 5:50 P.M on June 18, 2017, the following text exchange occurred:
[Ashley:] Been patient holding…
[Berry:] I got ur Chinese
2
Berry’s conviction for aggravated trafficking in drugs for this particular transaction merged with his
conviction for involuntary manslaughter at sentencing. Mar. 6 Tr. 32-33. However, to establish a conviction
for involuntary manslaughter, the State must prove that the defendant committed a felony that proximately
caused the death of another. Brown, supra, ¶ 11 (holding “[t]he ‘criminal intent of involuntary manslaughter
is supplied by the criminal intent to do the underlying unlawful act of which the homicide is a consequence’”),
quoting State v. Potee, 2017-Ohio-2926, 90 N.E.3d 58, ¶ 32 (12th Dist.). In this case, the State alleged that
the offense of aggravated trafficking in drugs arising from the transaction between Ashley and Berry on June
19, 2017 proximately caused the death of Ashley. Thus, Berry’s conviction for involuntary manslaughter
rests on the State having proved this underlying offense. For this reason, we will examine the record to
determine whether the state provided sufficient evidence to support this conviction even though this
conviction was merged by the trial court at sentencing.
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Doc. 173. At trial, Detective McDowell and Corporal Stone testified about the
meaning of the word “Chinese” in this context based upon their knowledge, training,
and experience. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 350. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 40.
{¶27} Detective McDowell testified that, in drug vernacular, “Chinese
contains Fentanyl, whether it is made up of heroin and/or methamphetamine.” Jan.
15 Vol. II Tr. 350. He also confirmed that “Chinese” “relates to the compound of
fentanyl” and that the fentanyl “could be in any drug.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 351. He
then testified that “when people are seeking out Chinese, they are looking for—or
they know that the drug is—there’s a strong chance of containing fentanyl.” Jan.
15 Vol. II Tr. 351.
{¶28} Corporal Stone testified on the word “Chinese” as follows:
Chinese is an interesting term or—street term for it is China
white.
***
China white has changed to some degree and drug vernacular
changes at times. Originally, * * * it was high quality white
Heroin believed to be from China. And then it has changed to be
high quality Fentanyl or Fentanyl laced Heroin * * *. [B]asically,
any time you get a white depressant, it’s going to be Fentanyl
based, a high quality Heroin base but there could be additives in
it to make it better.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 42. He stated that these additives “could be Methamphetamine,
Cocaine, Ketamine” and noted that Ashley died from “intoxication of Fentanyl and
Methamphetamine and Amphetamine.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 42.
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{¶29} Corporal Stone also testified that there are “different qualifiers” for
“Chinese,” including “slow lane” and “fast lane.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 40.
[I]n the context of this, slow lane, it’s going to be depressant * * *.
It’s a depressant. It’s an opioid. Fentanyl, Heroin, prescription
medications. Slow lane is typically going to be a depressant.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 40-41. He further confirmed that “slow lane” could encompass
“Fentanyl-Methamphetamine * * *, especially when you speak about the Chinese
in particular.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 42. Based on the context of these text messages,
Corporal Stone concluded that, in using the term “Chinese,” “[t]hey’re not talking
about Lo Mein. They’re talking about dope.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 40.
{¶30} At 7:34 P.M on June 18, 2017, the following exchange occurred
between Ashley and Berry:
[Ashley:] Did you make it to dinner?
[Berry:] Omfg what a disaster
[Berry:] This b**** is nodding out in her food at the table
[Ashley:] Oh so you can get her that but you won’t me??
Unacceptable babe.
[Berry:] I just told you I got it for u
[Berry:] I didn’t get it for her I got it for you and she saw it
***
[Berry:] If I showed up to dinner at her house f***ed up like this
I would never hear the f***ing end of it.
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Doc. 174-175. At trial, Berry’s mother, Lela testified that Berry lives at her house.
Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 327. She confirmed that Berry’s girlfriend came over for dinner
one night and had trouble staying awake and “went to sleep.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr.
329.
{¶31} At 8:42 P.M. on June 18, 2017, the following text exchange occurred:
[Ashley:] So how can I get that from you?
[Berry:] Usually with two tens and a thong
[Ashley:] 1 I got no problem. . . I hot thongs for days and would
be happy to model them for you anytime. . . the 2 tens. . . will you
accept IOU’s? Lol
[Berry:] Yep
[Berry:] Give me a few want to wait till on the morning and come
get it after u drop ur boys
[Ashley:] Do you have any idea how bad I need it for sleeping
purposes.
***
[Ashley:] You have a continuous flow of energy. . . I do not. I am
miserable right now
***
[Berry:] C wat I can do
[Ashley:] Thank you. . . Thank you. . . Thank you
Doc. 177, 179, 181. At trial, Corporal Stone testified that the text referring to “two
tens and a thong” was discussing payment. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 82-83. He said,
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Two tens meaning $20 and a thong. It’s payment for drugs. You
pay with money but it’s not uncommon to pay with stolen items
or with people’s bodies or pictures * * * obviously, a thong is a
type of underwear but the way I read that context, based on my
training, experience and this investigation, she was offering either
services or pictures or some type of her body as payment for dope.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 82-83. On cross-examination, he confirmed that Ashley had sent
pictures of her private areas to obtain drugs. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 167. Further,
Detective McDowell testified that he had an interview with Berry after Ashley’s
death. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 340. During this interview, Berry told McDowell that he
obtained Chinese from a person named Dutch “for about approximately $20. * * *
$20 at a time.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 350.
{¶32} At 10:05 P.M. on June 18, 2017, the following text exchange began:
[Ashley:] So is that a no go for tonight?
[Berry:] Not necisary gimme a few
[Ashley:] My fingers are crossed
[Ashley:] Just checking in
[Ashley:] Wyd?
[Berry:] Trying to get a ride
Doc. 182, 183. Corporal Stone testified that “WYD” was “common vernacular for
what are you doing.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 87.
{¶33} At 1:26 A.M. on June 19, 2017, the following exchange began:
[Berry:] You up
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[Ashley:] Yes
[Berry:] Wat u doin
[Ashley:] Nothin. . . wishing I could see you
[Berry:] I am home at my mom’s
[Ashley:] Wish I could get out there. . .
[Berry:] Me to
[Berry:] Lots on my mind. . . .smh
[Berry:] I saved you some
[Ashley:] Me too…
[Ashley:] Thank you
[Berry:] And if I could find you away here
[Ashley:] I need to end to this madness
[Berry:] What madness
[Berry:] The staying up or the other reality my demons are trying
to create
[Ashley:] Both. . . lol
Doc. 183, 184, 185.
{¶34} At 7:40 A.M. on June 19, 2017, the following exchange began:
[Berry:] I. in town babe I need u
[Ashley:] Ok im getting ready to take [my son] to daycare. Where
will you be?
[Berry:] Parking g lot of the Dollar tree over heated
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***
[Ashley:] I am hurrying. My mom doesnt leave until 9 so shes
still here.
[Berry:] Call me if can
***
[Ashley:] Did you bring that gor meet
[Berry:] Im righy by yhe YMCA
[Ashley:] Coming out of house.e depot
[Berry:] Home Depot
[Ashley:] Im here in frony of laen mowers
[Berry:] Coming
Doc. 193, 194, 195.
{¶35} Corporal Stone testified that Ashley sent text messages soliciting
drugs from several people in the days leading up to her death. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr.
178. However, he also confirmed that, after Ashley had met with Berry at Home
Depot on June 19, 2017, “her drug seeking behavior stop[ped]”, and that “[s]he
didn’t try to find drugs after that[.]” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 178. Corporal Stone testified
that it was the content of the text messages between Ashley and Berry on June 18
and June 19, 2017 that led him to believe that Berry was the most likely suspect in
the investigation into Ashley’s death. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 142.
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{¶36} At trial, Corporal Stone testified that he went to Home Depot and
examined their security footage. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 50-51. He stated that he observed
Berry, Ashley, and one of Ashley’s children together at Home Depot in footage
captured on the security cameras. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 50-51. This footage was played
for the jurors at trial. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 96, 98. Corporal Stone testified that he
could not find another reason for Ashley and Berry to meet at Home Depot aside
from a drug related transaction. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 175-176.
{¶37} Crumb testified that she had texted with Ashley on the day of her
death and had been close with Ashley. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 290, 292. She stated that
she had been addicted to prescription pain medication and could relate to Ashley’s
addiction for that reason. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 291. Crumb stated that she left work
during her lunch break on June 19, 2017 to go to Ashley’s residence and borrow a
hair dryer. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 298. She testified that, after Ashley’s death, she
informed the police that Ashley had indicated that she had met Berry at Home Depot
that morning. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 300.
{¶38} Detective McDowell testified that he sat down for an interview with
Berry at the Tri County Regional Jail. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 340. During this interview,
he asked Berry about “Chinese.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 349. At trial, Detective
McDowell testified as follows about this conversation:
towards the end of the interview, he had mentioned that when we
got into the source of supply of where he would purchase * * * this
Chinese from, he had said that he typically purchases from a guy
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by the nickname of Dutch and Dutch sells him—he usually—
typically purchases this Chinese from him for approximately $20.
Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 349-350. Detective McDowell stated that he asked Berry about
his source or “plug.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 351-352. In response, Berry stated “[t]hat
he [Berry] could get [Detective McDowell] anything [he] wanted * * *.” Jan. 15
Vol. II Tr. 352. Detective McDowell also testified that Berry admitted to having
done drugs with Ashley. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 359.
{¶39} Jennifer Watson (“Watson”), who is a chemistry technical leader at
the Miami Valley Regional Crime Laboratory, testified about the contents of the
substance that the police had found in Ashley’s residence during the police
investigation into her death. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 58. She stated that testing revealed
that this white powder contained fentanyl and ketamine. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 60. See
Ex. 253. Watson testified that fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance and
that ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 70. See Ex.
253.
{¶40} After viewing the evidence presented by the State at trial in a light
most favorable to the prosecution, we find that a rational trier of fact could have
concluded that Berry committed the offense of aggravated trafficking in drugs in
violation of R.C. 2925.03(A)(1) on June 19, 2017. Since the State produced some
evidence to substantiate each of the essential elements of this offense, we conclude
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that this conviction was supported by sufficient evidence. For this reason, this
argument is without merit.
Legal Analysis: Involuntary Manslaughter
{¶41} To establish a conviction for the offense of involuntary manslaughter
in violation of R.C. 2903.04(A), the State has to prove that the defendant “(1) caused
the death of another (2) as a proximate result (3) of the offender’s committing a
felony.” State v. Brown, 3d Dist. Hancock No. 5-17-19, 2018-Ohio-899, ¶ 11, citing
R.C. 2903.04(A). The “criminal intent of involuntary manslaughter is supplied by
the criminal intent to do the underlying unlawful act of which the homicide is a
consequence.” State v. Potee, 2017-Ohio-2926, 90 N.E.3d 58, ¶ 32 (12th Dist.).
{¶42} We have already determined that the State provided some evidence
for each of the essential elements of aggravated trafficking in drugs in violation of
R.C. 2925.03(A)(1), a felony of the fourth degree. In so doing, the State provided
some evidence to establish the third element of the offense of involuntary
manslaughter. See Brown, supra, at ¶ 11. We turn now to the other two elements
of this offense.
{¶43} The text messages that were discovered between Ashley and Berry
indicated that Berry had obtained “Chinese” for Ashley. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 39-42.
Corporal Stone testified that “Chinese” in drug vernacular referred to a compound
that contained fentanyl. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 39-42. Further, Wooldrige testified that
she discovered Ashley’s body in the bathroom and that she called 9-1-1. Jan. 15
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Vol. I Tr. 271, 284. Zach Welch (“Welch”), a firefighter for the City of Marysville,
testified that he was part of the team that responded to this call. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr.
7. Welch stated that his team administered overdose treatments to Ashley and then
brought her to the hospital. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 14, 18.
{¶44} At trial, Dr. Casto testified that Ashley died of a drug overdose and
that “there really [was] no other reason for her to be dead. She does not have natural
disease, she does not have an injury that would explain her death.” Jan. 15 Vol. I
Tr. 169. He stated that her cause of death was multiple drug intoxication with “the
drugs of significance” being fentanyl and amphetamines/methamphetamine. Jan.
15 Vol. I Tr. 170.
{¶45} Dr. Matthew Juhascik (“Dr. Juhascik”), the chief toxicologist at the
Montgomery County Coroner’s Office, testified that they found fentanyl and
methamphetamines in Ashley’s system. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 146. Further, Dr.
Applegate testified that, as the Union County Coroner, he had ruled Ashley’s
manner of death to be an accidental overdose death based upon the findings of the
autopsy report from Montgomery County. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 236. See Ex. 258.
{¶46} During the police investigation into Ashley’s death, Corporal Stone
testified that the police found what appeared to be an unused bag of drugs in the
bathroom with Ashley but did not report finding any other illicit drugs at the
residence during the investigation. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 33. The State introduced
testimony that drug paraphernalia was found in proximity to Ashley’s body. Jan.
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16 Vol. I Tr. 18-19. The police introduced pictures of a needle, a Q-tip, and a rig
bag on the bathroom floor where Ashley was found. Ex. 234. Jim Fish (“Fish”), an
investigator with the Union County Coroner’s Office, testified at trial that Ashley
had “fairly new” needle marks on her arm. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 205.
{¶47} After viewing the evidence presented by the State at trial in a light
most favorable to the prosecution, we find that a rational trier of fact could have
concluded that Berry committed the offense of involuntary manslaughter in
violation of R.C. 2925.03(A)(1). Since the State produced some evidence to
substantiate each of the essential elements of this offense, we conclude that this
conviction is supported by sufficient evidence. As such, Berry’s first assignment of
error is overruled.
Second Assignment of Error
{¶48} Berry argues that one of his convictions for aggravated trafficking in
drugs in violation of R.C. 2925.03(A)(1) and his conviction for involuntary
manslaughter in violation of R.C. 2903.04(A) are against the manifest weight of the
evidence.
Legal Standard
{¶49} In a manifest weight analysis, “an appellate court’s function * * * is
to determine whether the greater amount of credible evidence supports the verdict.”
Plott, supra, at ¶ 73. Thus, “the appellate court sits as a ‘thirteenth juror’ * * *.”
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State v. Davis, 3d Dist. Seneca No. 13-16-30, 2017-Ohio-2916, ¶ 17, quoting State
v. Thompkins, 78 Ohio St.3d 380, 387, 678 N.E.2d 541 (1997). Appellate courts
must review the entire record, weigh the evidence and all of the
reasonable inferences, consider the credibility of witnesses, and
determine whether in resolving conflicts in the evidence, the
factfinder ‘clearly lost its way and created such a manifest
miscarriage of justice that the conviction must be reversed and a
new trial ordered.’
State v. Brentlinger, 2017-Ohio-2588, 90 N.E.3d 200, ¶ 36 (3d Dist.), quoting
Thompkins at 387.
{¶50} “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. Sullivan, 2017-Ohio-8937, 102 N.E.3d 86, ¶ 38 (3d Dist.),
quoting State v. Coleman, 3d Dist. Allen No. 1-13-53, 2014-Ohio-5320, ¶ 7. “[I]t
is well established that the * * * credibility of the witnesses [is] primarily a matter
for the trier of fact.” State v. Gervin, 2016-Ohio-8399, 79 N.E.3d 59, ¶ 142 (3d
Dist.), quoting State v. Clark, 101 Ohio App.3d 389, 409, 655 N.E.2d 795 (8th Dist.
1995). “Only in exceptional cases, where the evidence ‘weighs heavily against the
conviction,’ should an appellate court overturn the trial court’s judgment.” State v.
Little, 2016-Ohio-8398, 78 N.E.3d 323, ¶ 27 (3d Dist.), quoting State v. Hunter, 131
Ohio St.3d 67, 2011-Ohio-6524, 960 N.E.2d 955, ¶ 119.
Legal Analysis: Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs
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{¶51} We reincorporate the evidence presented under the first assignment of
error and proceed to evaluating the evidence presented at trial on the basis of its
weight. On cross-examination, Corporal Stone testified that he did not focus alone
on Berry as a suspect. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 142. He considered several other contacts
in Ashley’s phone. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 142. He stated that, in this process, the police
interviewed Crumb. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 128. At trial, he confirmed that the police
informed Crumb that “she was suspected of bringing drugs to Ashley” during this
interview. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 129, 133. He further indicated that Crumb was not
initially forthcoming about many details of her relationship with Ashley. Jan. 16
Vol. I Tr. 129-130. He also mentioned that Crumb did not, in her initial statement,
mention that she went to see Ashley on June 19, 2017 for the purpose of borrowing
a hair dryer. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 133.
{¶52} The Defense then questioned Corporal Stone about another contact,
S.H., that Ashley had in her phone. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 135. Corporal Stone indicated
that he could not verify that S.H. was a drug dealer but could confirm that he had
been a drug addict in the past. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 135. The Defense then questioned
Corporal Stone about another contact, A.C., that Ashley had in her phone. Jan. 16
Vol. I Tr. 138. Corporal Stone testified that he did not have any information that
she was a dealer but could verify that she was an addict. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 138.
{¶53} Corporal Stone testified that he determined Berry was the most likely
suspect because of the communications between Ashley and Berry in the twelve to
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twenty-four hours before her death. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 142. He testified that he came
to the belief that Berry and Ashley met at Home Depot for a drug deal because of
the content of the text messages they had exchanged. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 157-158.
When asked about Berry’s statement to G.C.—that he had seen Ashley on June 19,
2017 so that she could give him $15.00 for a ride—Corporal Stone indicated that
this statement did not seem to “correlate” with Berry’s actions on that morning. Jan.
16 Vol. I Tr. 155.
{¶54} On cross-examination, Ashley’s mother, Tonya, stated that Ashley did
get drugs from Berry but also indicated that Ashley had, at times, obtained drugs
from other people as well. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 139. She stated that N.C. had been a
source of drugs for Ashley before N.C. and Ashley had a falling out. Jan. 14 Vol.
II Tr. 114. She also stated that she was not aware of Crumb bringing drugs to
Ashley. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 122. The Defense also read the names of around nineteen
people that Ashley had contacted in the days before her death. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr.
108-110. Tonya testified that she did not recognize most of these names. Jan. 14
Vol. II Tr. 108-110. The Defense also questioned Tonya about the various
prescription drugs that Ashley had been using around the time of her death. Jan. 14
Vol. II Tr. 116.
{¶55} Having reviewed this evidence produced at trial on the basis of its
weight and credibility, we conclude that the evidence in the record does not weigh
heavily against Berry’s conviction for aggravated trafficking in drugs. Further,
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there is no indication in the record that the jury lost its way and returned a verdict
against the manifest weight of the evidence. For this reason, this argument is
without merit.
Legal Analysis: Involuntary Manslaughter
{¶56} We reincorporate the evidence presented under the first assignment of
error for Berry’s conviction for involuntary manslaughter and proceed to examining
the evidence in the record on the basis of its weight and credibility. At trial,
Corporal Stone testified that he examined the contents of several prescription
medication bottles in Ashley’s residence and searched for other “illicit drugs.” Jan.
16 Vol. I Tr. 143. He further testified that he looked to see if the pills inside the
bottles matched the prescription. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 143. The Defense also asked
about whether there were any indications that Ashley may have committed suicide.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 169. Corporal Stone testified that he did not find any indication
that this death was a suicide. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 173. He stated that he had no reason
to doubt the assessments of the medical examiners who determined that this death
was an accidental overdose death. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 171-172. See Ex. 255, 258;
Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 169-170, 146, 236.
{¶57} Corporal Stone confirmed that Ashley indicated that she was
“miserable” in the text messages that she sent to Berry. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 168. The
following exchange occurred between defense counsel and Corporal Stone:
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[Defense Counsel:] And we know from not only the conversation
with Jon Berty [sic] but other people that Ashley was fiending bad
up to her death. Correct?
[Corporal Stone:] I believe she states that.
[Defense Counsel:] And how do you take fiending to mean in the
drug world?
[Corporal Stone:] So, dope sick. You and me, we don’t need it.
Once they have it in their body, they need it every eight to ten
hours or they’re going to get the worse sickness you’ve ever seen.
It’s a flu-like vomit, diarrhea. They want death. * * * If they’re
wanting it, it’s not just them wanting it like me and you want to
go get a beer after this. They physically need it. It’s a
psychological, mental and physical thing that they need it.
[Defense Counsel:] And she’s oftentimes texting at all hours of
the night trying to find it. Correct?
[Corporal Stone:] Messaging and texting.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 168-169.
{¶58} The Defense also asked Corporal Stone about whether Ashley could
have had a stash built up that she could have used on the date of her death. Jan. 16
Vol. I Tr. 178. Corporal Stone testified that addicts generally do not keep a stash.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 178. He stated, “that’s very rare. It’s a quick deal. The best
chance you have to catch an addict with their dope is in transit.” Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr.
178-179. He further stated that:
if I buy from you, I’m going to try to set up the next one. That’s
typical. But to have quantities of drugs on them, that’s just not
because they’re using and they’re going to use it and deplete it
rather quickly.
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Case No. 14-20-05
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 179. He then stated that, once she got the drugs, Ashley would
“use them immediately thereafter or [in] close proximity” to when she obtained
them. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 179.
{¶59} Crumb testified that she had given Ashley marijuana in the past but
denied transporting drugs to Ashley. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 305. She admitted to having
smoked marijuana with Ashley. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 308. Crumb also stated that
Ashley had asked her for drugs. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 308. She testified that, upon
such requests, she “would just put her off” and “would not get her anything.” Jan.
15 Vol. II Tr. 308. She testified that she knew Berry but stated that Berry had never
asked her to deliver drugs to Ashley for him. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 308.
{¶60} On cross-examination, Crumb testified that she worked as an STNA
at Carriage Court but stated that she did not have any access to drugs. Jan. 15 Vol.
II Tr. 310. She also admitted that her initial witness statement to the police did not
mention that her purpose in visiting Ashley was to borrow a hair dryer. Jan. 15 Vol.
II Tr. 311. But she denied fabricating this detail after she discovered that Ashley
had died. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 315. She further admitted to bringing Ashley marijuana
but denied taking Ashley any other drugs. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 314, 316.
{¶61} On cross-examination, Wooldridge testified that her nephew, M.R.,
was present when she discovered Ashley in the bathroom on June 19, 2017. Jan. 15
Vol. II Tr. 276, 278. She stated that M.R. was a drug addict and informed her that
he did not see any drug paraphernalia around Ashley’s body. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr.
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284. However, she also stated that M.R. was not looking for drug paraphernalia and
was tending to Ashley at that time. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 287. On cross-examination,
Welch, the first responder, also could not identify the pictures of Ashley’s bathroom
or the picture of the syringe on the floor. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 32. He stated that he
could not recall what the scene looked like at the time he arrived at Ashley’s
residence on June 19, 2017. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 32. However, his report noted that a
syringe was located near to Ashley’s body. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 31.
{¶62} While cross-examining Dr. Applegate, defense counsel noted that one
of the reports from the Union County Coroner’s Office indicated that the family
members had forced themselves into Ashley’s residence. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 250.
Defense counsel noted that the family members had testified that they did not force
themselves into the home but only into the bathroom. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 250. Dr.
Applegate testified that he “could not dispute that” testimony. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr.
250. Defense counsel also noted that Dr. Applegate’s report indicated that the
family members found drug paraphernalia next to Ashley’s body. Jan. 15 Vol. II
Tr. 250. Dr. Applegate stated that he believed that this fact was supported by
information he had received. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 250-251.
{¶63} Defense counsel also noted that the report from the coroner’s office
indicated that the investigators found a brown paper bag with drugs inside. Jan. 15
Vol. II Tr. 253. The report also stated that “fentamine” was found in this brown
paper bag instead of “fentanyl.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 255. However, Dr. Applegate
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noted that his secretary had begun to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease around the
time that this report was produced. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 256. He also testified that
the context of this situation did not indicate that Ashley had committed suicide and
that he, for this reason, went with the “generally-accepted medical ruling, that
overdoses are accidental in nature.” Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 257.
{¶64} Dr. Juhascik testified that they did not find ketamine in Ashley’s
system. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 143. However, he also stated that ketamine could possibly
be present in Ashley’s system but that the test simply did not detect this substance.
Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 148. He further testified that fentanyl and methamphetamine can
cause death and noted that the drugs in Ashley’s system could also be found in some
prescription drugs. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 146, 160.
{¶65} Having considered the evidence presented at trial on the basis of its
weight and credibility, we conclude that the evidence in the record does not weigh
heavily against Berry’s conviction for involuntary manslaughter. Further, there is
no indication that the jury lost its way and returned a verdict against the manifest
weight of the evidence. As such, Berry’s second assignment of error is overruled.
Third Assignment of Error
{¶66} Berry argues that the trial court erred by failing to give a jury
instruction on causation for the charge of involuntary manslaughter.
Legal Standard
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Case No. 14-20-05
{¶67} “A trial court’s instructions to a jury must correctly, clearly, and
completely state the law applicable to the case.” State v. Orians, 179 Ohio App.3d
701, 2008-Ohio-6185, 903 N.E.2d 656, ¶ 10 (3d Dist.). Further, “a defendant is
entitled to have the jury instructed on all elements that must be proved to establish
the crime with which he is charged.” State v. Gardner, 118 Ohio St.3d 420, 2008-
Ohio-2787, 889 N.E.2d 995, ¶ 37, quoting State v. Adams, 62 Ohio St.2d 151, 153,
404 N.E.2d 144, 146 (1980). “Generally, appellate courts review alleged errors in
jury instructions for an abuse of discretion.” State v. Chavez, 3d Dist. Seneca Nos.
13-19-05, 13-19-06, and 13-19-07, 2020-Ohio-426, ¶ 58.
{¶68} However, if the Defense does not object to a jury instruction or request
a specific jury instruction before the trial court, all but plain error is waived on
appeal. State v. Harrison, 2015-Ohio-1419, 31 N.E.3d 220, ¶ 69 (3d Dist.). Under
Crim.R. 52(A), “[p]lain errors or defects affecting substantial rights may be noticed
although they were not brought to the attention of the court.” Crim.R. 52(B).
“In order to find plain error under Crim.R. 52(B), there must be
an error, the error must be an ‘obvious’ defect in the trial
proceedings, and the error must have affected ‘substantial
rights.’” State v. Bowsher, 3d Dist. Union No. 14-07-32, 2009-
Ohio-6524, ¶ 12, quoting State v. Barnes, 94 Ohio St.3d 21, 27, 759
N.E.2d 1240 (2002). ‘The standard for plain error is whether, but
for the error, the outcome of the proceeding clearly would have
been otherwise.’ State v. Hornbeck, 155 Ohio App.3d 571, 2003-
Ohio-6897, 802 N.E.2d 184, ¶ 16 (2d Dist.), citing State v. Long, 53
Ohio St.2d 91, 372 N.E.2d 804 (1978).
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Case No. 14-20-05
State v. Taflinger, 3d Dist. Logan No. 8-17-20, 2018-Ohio-456, ¶ 17. “The
defendant bears the burden of establishing an obvious defect in the proceedings.”
State v. Queen, 3d Dist. Logan No. 8-19-41, 2020-Ohio-618, ¶ 7. Further, the plain
error doctrine is applicable in exceptional circumstances and only to prevent a
manifest miscarriage of justice. State v. Cartlidge, 3d Dist. Seneca No. 13-18-33,
2019-Ohio-1283, ¶ 11.
{¶69} “Ohio Jury Instructions is a compendium of standard instructions
prepared by the Jury Instructions Committee of the Ohio Judicial Conference, and
is generally followed and applied by Ohio’s courts.” State v. Thompson, 2d Dist.
Montgomery No. 22984, 2010-Ohio-1680, ¶ 174. “The instructions found in Ohio
Jury Instructions are not mandatory. Rather, they are recommended instructions
based primarily upon case law and statutes * * *.” State v. Martens, 90 Ohio App.3d
338, 343, 629 N.E.2d 462, 465 (3d Dist.). This Court has previously held that, when
a “trial court’s instructions closely track the * * * language of the Ohio Jury
Instructions,” this “suggests their accuracy and comprehensibility.” State v. Smith,
3d Dist. Logan No. 8-12-05, 2013-Ohio-746, ¶ 31.
Legal Analysis
{¶70} On appeal, Berry alleges that the jury instructions for the charge of
involuntary manslaughter failed to properly explain causation. R.C. 2903.04(A)
defines this crime and reads, in its relevant part, as follows:
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Case No. 14-20-05
No person shall cause the death of another or the unlawful
termination of another’s pregnancy as a proximate result of the
offender’s committing or attempting to commit a felony.
(Emphasis added.) R.C. 2903.04(A). Berry raises two main arguments under this
assignment of error. However, since he did not request a specific jury instruction
or raise an objection to these jury instructions below, we will review these
arguments under the standard for plain error. Jan. 16 Vol. II Tr. 37-44, 67.
{¶71} First, Berry argues that the trial court “failed to give any jury
instruction regarding causation.” Appellant’s Brief, 12. However, the trial court
included the following statement in the jury instructions:
Before you can find the Defendant guilty of involuntary
manslaughter, you must find that the State of Ohio has proven
beyond a reasonable doubt that * * * Jonathan E. Berry did cause
the death of Ashley Russell.
***
Proximate result bears a resemblance to the concept—concept of
proximate cause * * * in that Defendant will be held responsible
for those foreseeable consequences which are known to be or
should be known to be within the scope of risk created by his
conduct.
***
Proximate cause is an act or failure to act that in the natural and
continuous sequence, directly produced the physical harm and
without which it would not have occurred. There may be more
than one proximate cause. When a negligent act or failure to act
of one party combines with the negligence of another to produce
the physical harm, the negligence is a cause.
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Case No. 14-20-05
Jan. 16 Vol. II Tr. 55-56. These statements are very similar to the relevant Ohio
Jury Instructions for causation:
1. CAUSE. The state charges that the act or failure to act of the
defendant caused (death) (physical harm to [person] [property]).
Cause is an essential element of the offense. Cause is an act or
failure to act which in a natural and continuous sequence directly
produces the (death) (physical harm to [person] [property]), and
without which it would not have occurred.
2 OJI-CR 417.23.
1. OTHER CAUSES NOT A DEFENSE. There may be one or
more causes of an event. However, if a defendant’s act or failure
to act was one cause, then the existence of other causes is not a
defense.
2 OJI-CR 417.25.3
{¶72} The offense of involuntary manslaughter includes the elements of
causation and proximate result. R.C. 2903.04(A). A review of the jury instructions
reveals that the trial court explained both of these elements, in part, by using the
rubric provided by the concept of proximate cause. Jan. 16 Vol. II Tr. 55-56. See
State v. Carpenter, 2019-Ohio-58, 128 N.E.3d 857, ¶ 51 (3d Dist.) (holding that
“Ohio law generally defines ‘cause’ in criminal cases identically to the definition of
‘proximate cause’ in civil cases.”); State v. Chambers, 53 Ohio App.2d 266, 373
N.E.2d 393 (9th Dist. 1977) (holding that “the legislature intended to follow the
theory of proximate cause” as the basis of liability in R.C. 2903.04.); State v. Baksi,
3
The Ohio Jury Instructions for involuntary manslaughter in OJI-CR 503.04 do not contain a separate
definition for causation but directs attorneys to use the general jury instructions for causation contained in
OJI-CR 417.23, OJI-CR 417.25. 2 OJI-CR 503.04.
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11th Dist. Trumbull No. 98-T-0123, 1999 WL 1299297, *13 (Dec. 23, 1999). Use
of this language is not an indication that the trial court failed to instruct the jurors
on the element of causation.
{¶73} Thus, contrary to Berry’s assertion, the record indicates that the trial
court adequately explained the causation element for the offense of involuntary
manslaughter in its instructions to the jury. The trial court’s explanation of
causation closely tracked with the language of the Ohio Jury Instructions for
causation. OJI-CR 417.23, OJI-CR 417.25. See State v. Reese, 7th Dist. Mahoning
No. 14 MA 116, 2016-Ohio-557, ¶ 18. Since Berry has not demonstrated how this
instruction was defective, he cannot carry the burden of establishing plain error. As
such, his first argument is without merit.
{¶74} Second, Berry argues that the trial court should have “included a ‘but-
for’ causation instruction, or an instruction * * * regarding the ‘substantial’ or
‘contributing’ factor.” Appellant’s Brief, 12. Again, we note that Berry did not
propose a specific jury instruction for causation, limiting our analysis to plain error.
In his argument, Berry points to the United States Supreme Court’s decision in
Burrage v. United States as the basis for his argument that an instruction on “‘but
for’ causation” is required in this context. Appellant’s Brief, 13, citing Burrage v.
U.S., 571 U.S. 204, 218-219, 134 S.Ct. 881, 187 L.Ed.2d 715 (2014). However, in
State v. Price, the Ohio Supreme Court found that Burrage was “persuasive
authority only.” State v. Price, 2020-Ohio-4926, --- N.E.3d ---, ¶ 28. See
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Case No. 14-20-05
Carpenter, supra, at ¶ 49. As such, his reliance on Burrage does not, by itself,
establish that the jury instructions were defective in the context of this case.
{¶75} In State v. Carpenter, this Court also considered the use of the “but
for” test in the context of an involuntary manslaughter charge. Carpenter, supra, at
¶ 52. In that case, this Court stated that
[t]here are several tests for actual causation, the most common of
which is the ‘but for’ test; however, there are circumstances
under which the ‘but for’ test is inapplicable and an act or
omission can be considered a cause in fact if it was a ‘substantial’
or ‘contributing’ factor in producing the result.
(Citations omitted.) Id. Further, in State v. Mitchell, this Court held that
While ‘but for’ causation is used in the vast majority of cases,
there are circumstances where that analysis is inapplicable
because, as a matter of law, there can be more than one proximate
cause of an injury.
State v. Mitchell, 3d Dist. Union No. 14-19-14, 2019-Ohio-5168, ¶ 23.
{¶76} In the case before this Court, the trial court did not mention the “but
for” test in its jury instructions. Jan. 16 Vol. II Tr. 55-56. Instead, the trial court
instructed the jury that, in this case, there could be more than one cause. Jan. 16
Vol. II Tr. 55-56. The trial court’s decision was not, in this regard, improper under
Mitchell. Mitchell, supra, at ¶ 23. Thus, this second argument is without merit. In
both of these arguments, Berry has not carried the burden of establishing that the
trial court committed an error let alone a plain error that affected the outcome of this
case. As such, his third assignment of error is overruled.
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Case No. 14-20-05
Fourth Assignment of Error
{¶77} Berry argues that the trial court erred by overruling his motion for a
mistrial after a potential juror’s statements allegedly tainted the jury pool.
Legal Standard
{¶78} “A mistrial is an extreme remedy, declared only when a fair trial is no
longer possible.” State v. Sidibeh, 192 Ohio App.3d 256, 2011-Ohio-712, 948
N.E.2d 995, ¶ 44 (10th Dist.). As such, “[m]istrials are necessary ‘only when the
ends of justice so require * * *.’” State v. Welch, 3d Dist. Wyandot No. 16-06-02,
2006-Ohio-6684, ¶ 9, quoting State v. Drummond, 111 Ohio St.3d 14, 2006-Ohio-
5084, 854 N.E.2d 1038, at ¶ 131. “[A] mistrial should not be ordered merely
because some error or irregularity had intervened.” State v. Carter, 3d Dist. Allen
No. 1-15-62, 2017-Ohio-1233, ¶ 71.
{¶79} “[T]he trial judge is in the best position to determine whether the
situation in [the] courtroom warrants the declaration of a mistrial.” State v. Ahmed,
103 Ohio St.3d 27, 2004-Ohio-4190, 813 N.E.2d 637, ¶ 92. For this reason, the
decision to grant or deny a motion for a mistrial lies within the sound discretion of
the trial court. State v. Randle, 2018-Ohio-207, 104 N.E.3d 202, ¶ 29 (3d Dist.).
Thus, a trial court’s disposition of a motion for a mistrial will not be disturbed in
the absence of an abuse of discretion. Id. “The term ‘abuse of discretion’ connotes
more than an error of law or of judgment; it implies that the court’s attitude is
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unreasonable, arbitrary or unconscionable.” State v. Ortega, 3d Dist. Hancock No.
5-16-17, 2017-Ohio-239, ¶ 10, quoting Adams, supra, at 157.
Legal Analysis
{¶80} In this case, defense counsel made a motion for a mistrial after a
potential juror made the following remarks during voir dire:
[Trial court]: I think—did the next lady have her hand up? * * *.
Juror: Yeah. He dated my good friend in high school.
[Trial court]: Mr. Berry?
Juror: Uh-huh. I believe so. He’s from Plain City.
[Trial court]: Okay. So dated good friend?
Juror: Yes.
[Trial court]: And you think that that’s going to keep you from
being able to be fair and impartial in this case?
Juror: Probably.
[Trial court]: Why? I’ll put you on the spot a little bit.
Juror: Well, he never liked me then and he always scared me and
he was the same kind of person back then.
[Trial court]: Okay. All right. So the rest of the jurors need to
disregard that last part, same kind of person back then.
Juror: Sorry.
Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 21-22. See State v. Palmer, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 89957, 2008-
Ohio-2937, ¶ 21.
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{¶81} We begin our analysis of these comments by noting that this potential
juror was subsequently dismissed and did not, therefore, participate in the jury
deliberations. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 48-51. See State v. Richardson, 5th Richland No.
18CA24, 2018-Ohio-4817, ¶ 22 (considering the fact that an alternate juror who had
made inappropriate comments “did not participate in the deliberations.”).
Nonetheless, Berry asserts that “[t]he entire jury pool was tainted” by this comment.
Appellant’s Brief, 15. However, “[p]rejudice can not generally be presumed but
must be affirmatively demonstrated in the record.” State v. Gonzales, 3d Dist.
Wyandot No. 16-08-17, 2009-Ohio-1656, ¶ 8. The nature of these comments is not
“so egregious” that they overcome this general presumption. State v. Hairston, 4th
Dist. Scioto No. 06CA3087, 2007-Ohio-4159, ¶ 15. Berry has also not raised an
argument that demonstrates, from the record, how these remarks biased the jurors
or prejudiced the proceedings. Gonzales at ¶ 8.
{¶82} Further, the trial court instructed the other jurors to disregard this
potential juror’s comments. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 22. See State v. Wayt, 83 Ohio App.3d
848, 615 N.E.2d 1107, 1109 (12th Dist. 1992) (considering the trial court’s
corrective measures in response to a juror’s challenged comments). The trial court
later instructed the jurors as to what evidentiary materials they could consider in
reaching a verdict. Jan. 16, Vol. II Tr. 50. See State v. Williams, 10th Dist. Franklin
No. 94APA12-1786, 1995 WL 527672, * 3 (Sept. 7, 1995) (considering that a
juror’s challenged comments came before the jury had been instructed “on the law
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to be applied in the case.”). We are to presume that the jurors followed the
instructions of the trial court. State v. McWay, 3d Dist. Allen No. 1-17-14, 2018-
Ohio-3618, ¶ 12. Berry has not given us a reason to dispense with this presumption.
{¶83} In conclusion, the fact that a potential juror is dismissed during the
course of voir dire does not, by itself, render the remaining jurors biased. Berry has
not demonstrated from the record that these remarks tainted the jury or prejudiced
the remainder of these proceedings. See Gonzalez, supra, at ¶ 8, 10. In other words,
he has not established that a fair trial was no longer possible. Having reviewed the
materials in the record, we cannot conclude that the trial court abused its discretion
in denying Berry’s motion for a mistrial. Thus, his fourth assignment of error is
overruled.
Fifth Assignment of Error
{¶84} Berry argues that the trial court erred in denying the motion for a
mistrial that he made after the State was late in disclosing the agreement between
the police and the confidential informant.
Legal Standard
{¶85} We reincorporate the standard for mistrials set forth under the fourth
assignment of error. Further, Crim.R. 16 reads, in its relevant part, as follows:
(A) Purpose, Scope and Reciprocity. This rule is to provide all
parties in a criminal case with the information necessary for a full
and fair adjudication of the facts, to protect the integrity of the
justice system and the rights of defendants, and to protect the
well-being of witnesses, victims, and society at large. All duties
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and remedies are subject to a standard of due diligence, apply to
the defense and the prosecution equally, and are intended to be
reciprocal. Once discovery is initiated by demand of the
defendant, all parties have a continuing duty to supplement their
disclosures.
(L) Regulation of Discovery.
(1) The trial court may make orders regulating discovery not
inconsistent with this rule. If at any time during the course of the
proceedings it is brought to the attention of the court that a party
has failed to comply with this rule or with an order issued
pursuant to this rule, the court may order such party to permit
the discovery or inspection, grant a continuance, or prohibit the
party from introducing in evidence the material not disclosed, or
it may make such other order as it deems just under the
circumstances.
Crim.R. 16(A), (L)(1). “‘[T]he philosophy of the Criminal Rules is to remove the
element of gamesmanship from a trial.’ The purpose of discovery rules is to prevent
surprise and the secreting of evidence favorable to one party. The overall purpose
is to produce a fair trial.” City of Lakewood v. Papadelis, 32 Ohio St.3d 1, 3, 511
N.E.2d 1138, 1140 (1987), quoting State v. Howard, 56 Ohio St.2d 328, 333, 383
N.E.2d 912, 915 (1978).
When considering whether a discovery violation occurred, courts
must consider three factors: (1) whether the failure to disclose was
willful; (2) whether foreknowledge of the undisclosed material
would have benefitted the defendant in trial preparation; and (3)
whether the accused was prejudiced by the late disclosure.
State v. Vargo, 7th Dist. Belmont No. 17 BE 0021, 2018-Ohio-2487, ¶ 21, citing
State v. Darmond, 135 Ohio St.3d 343, 2013-Ohio-966, 986 N.E.2d 971, ¶ 35.
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A trial court must inquire into the circumstances producing the
alleged violation of Crim.R. 16. The court is required to impose
the least severe sanction that is consistent with the purpose of the
rules of discovery.
State v. Parker, 53 Ohio St.3d 82, 86, 558 N.E.2d 1164, 1168 (1990).
Legal Analysis
{¶86} In this case, defense counsel informed the trial court that the State had
not disclosed the defendant’s agreement” between G.C., the confidential informant,
and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 114. Ex. 229. On the
basis of this failure, the Defense objected “to any testimony or use of [G.C.] here at
this trial * * *.” Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 115.
{¶87} Before the trial began, the State explained that, under this agreement,
G.C. had agreed to be a confidential informant in several controlled buys. Jan. 13
Vol. I Tr. 116. If G.C. complied with the terms of this agreement, he would not be
charged with several crimes. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 115-116. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 10. Ex.
229. However, G.C. was caught lying to the police in violation of the defendant’s
agreement. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 7, 9. As a result, the defendant’s agreement was
terminated. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 12. G.C. did not receive the benefit held out under
this defendant’s agreement and was charged with a crime. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 13.
{¶88} The State identified the fact that the defendant’s agreement was
violated and terminated as a reason that its late disclosure should not be a basis for
a discovery sanction. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 116. Before trial, the State also produced a
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copy of the defendant’s agreement for the Defense to review. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 117,
119. In response, defense counsel stated that he “suspected there was a deal, but
did not know there was a deal.” Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 118. He then asserted that this
late disclosure “could very well have materially, if not drastically[,] altered trial
strategy in terms of how we approach [G.C.].” Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 118. The Defense
then requested a continuance of the trial. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 118.
{¶89} After hearing these arguments, the trial court denied this request for a
continuance and stated the following:
The issue is prejudice. This case has been pending before this
Court * * * since February of 2019. Almost an entire year. And
if you wish to have inspected the documents related to the prior
record, you could have done that. If you had any questions about
whether or not the State was fully compliant with their obligations
under Criminal Rule 16, you could have raised that with the
Court prior to now.
***
Objection’s overruled subject to the Court’s order that the State
provide the agreement, which turned out not to be an agreement,
and record, which you’ve done both of these. And the Court’s
order that the defense is entitled to voir dire the witness prior to
testimony if they wish to do that.
Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 119-120. The trial court gave the Defense one hour to review the
relevant materials before trial. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 119-120. The trial court concluded
this discussion by stating that “if there’s any issues about not enough time, we can
deal with it at that point in time.” Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 120-121.
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{¶90} Before the trial resumed, the Defense declined to question G.C. before
the State called him as a witness. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 121-122. Deputy Wilson was
the State’s first witness. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 122. The State and the Defense
questioned him about the contents of the defendant’s agreement and the actions G.C.
committed in violation of that agreement. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 7-13; Jan. 14 Vol. I
Tr. 89-90, 119-125. Subsequently, when G.C. was called by the State as a witness,
he refused to testify. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 126. After G.C. refused to answer the State’s
questions on direct examination, the trial court gave the Defense the opportunity to
cross-examine G.C. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 160. However, at this point, the Defense
declined to cross-examine him. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 160.
{¶91} On appeal, Berry has not demonstrated how he was prejudiced by the
late disclosure of a copy of the defendant’s agreement. The trial court gave the
Defense an opportunity to review the relevant materials. Jan. 13 Vol. I Tr. 120-121.
The Defense ably and extensively cross-examined Deputy Wilson about the
contents of this defendant’s agreement and G.C.’s violations of this agreement after
the State had extensively questioned Deputy Wilson about the same matters. Jan.
13 Vol. II Tr. 7-13; Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 19-26, 89-90. Thus, the jury heard about the
terms of the defendant’s agreement and G.C.’s dishonesty without hearing G.C.’s
testimony about the four controlled buys in which he was a confidential informant.
Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 126-160.
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{¶92} Further, in its arguments about the late disclosure of the defendant’s
agreement before trial, the Defense asserted that its strategy with regard to G.C.
might be affected by the State’s late disclosure of the defendant’s agreement. Jan.
13 Vol. I Tr. 118. However, because of G.C.’s refusal to testify, the Defense
declined even to cross-examine G.C. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 160. For these reasons,
Berry has not demonstrated how his Defense was, in fact, prejudiced by the late
disclosure of G.C.’s defendant’s agreement.
{¶93} Since Berry has not demonstrated prejudice under the facts of this
case, his argument is without merit. See Smale, supra, at ¶ 38. Having reviewed
the materials in the record, we cannot conclude that the trial court abused its
discretion in deciding not to declare a mistrial. As such, Berry’s fifth assignment of
error is overruled.
Sixth Assignment of Error
{¶94} Berry asserts that the trial court should not have held G.C. in contempt
of court for his refusal to testify and should have given an instruction to the jurors
to disregard the testimony that G.C. did give before he refused to testify.
Legal Standard
{¶95} If a party alleges that the trial court failed to instruct the jury to
disregard a witness’s testimony but did not request such an instruction, all but plain
error is waived on appeal. State v. Dickinson, 3d Dist. Paulding No. 11-08-08, 2009-
Ohio-2099, ¶ 27. See also State v. Hale, 119 Ohio St.3d 118, 2008-Ohio-3426, 892
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N.E.2d 864, ¶ 171 (holding that the failure to request curative instructions “waiv[es]
any claim to such instructions”). Accordingly, we reincorporate the standard for
plain error as set forth under the third assignment of error above.
Legal Analysis
{¶96} In this case, G.C. was called as a witness by the State. Jan. 14 Vol. I
Tr. 114. However, once on the stand, G.C. asserted his Fifth Amendment right
against self-incrimination and refused to testify. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 126, 134. The
trial court ordered a recess to allow G.C. time to consult with his attorney. Jan. 14
Vol. I Tr. 134. The State offered G.C.
immunity as it relates to, one, any questions asked by the
prosecutor this afternoon; and, two, specifically as it relates to any
events that occurred on April the 7th of 2017, April the 27th of
2017, June the 16th of 2017, and June the 21st of 2017.
Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 134. Based on this grant of immunity, the trial court determined
that G.C. did “not have a Fifth Amendment Right against self-incrimination.” Jan.
14 Vol. I Tr. 135. However, G.C. continued to refuse to testify. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr.
150-161. In response, the trial court held G.C. in contempt. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 150-
161. After the State concluded direct examination, the Defense declined to cross-
examine G.C. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 160.
{¶97} The Defense did not object or raise an argument before the trial court
as to whether G.C. should be held in contempt for his refusal to testify.4 As such,
4
Before the State formally granted G.C. immunity, defense counsel argued that G.C. could refuse to testify
pursuant to his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 133. The trial court
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we will apply the standard of plain error for review. On appeal, Berry has not
advanced an argument that explains how the trial court’s decision to hold G.C. in
contempt was an error, let alone an error that prejudiced his substantial rights and
changed the outcome of this proceeding. Taflinger, supra, at ¶ 17. In the absence
of such a showing, this argument is without merit.
{¶98} Further, the Defense also did not request an instruction from the trial
court that directed the jurors to disregard the small amount of testimony that G.C.
did give before his refusal to testify. In the absence of such a request, we will apply
the standard for plain error on appeal. Again, Berry has not advanced an argument
that explains how the trial court erred by failing to instruct the jury to disregard the
limited testimony that G.C. gave before he refused to testify. Even if the trial court
should have given such an instruction, Berry has not demonstrated how the absence
of this instruction prejudiced his substantial rights and changed the outcome of this
proceeding. Since Berry has not carried the burden of demonstrating plain error in
either of these two arguments, his sixth assignment of error is overruled.
Seventh Assignment of Error
stated that it agreed with this argument based on how the situation stood at that moment. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr.
133. Further, the State initially requested that G.C. be called as a court’s witness. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 127.
Defense counsel opposed this request. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 127, 149. However, after G.C. consulted with his
attorney and after the State formally granted G.C. immunity, defense counsel did not object or raise
arguments against the trial court’s findings of contempt against G.C. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 150-161.
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{¶99} Berry argues the text messages between him and Ashley that were
admitted into evidence were inadmissible evidence that violated his right to confront
the witnesses against him.
Legal Standard
{¶100} “‘Hearsay’ is a statement, other than one made by the declarant while
testifying at the trial or hearing, offered in evidence to prove the truth of the matter
asserted.” Evid.R. 801(C). Hearsay is typically inadmissible unless the statement
falls into a hearsay exception. Evid.R. 802. “An appellate court’s review of the
admission of evidence is limited to a determination as to whether the trial court
abused its discretion.” State v. Hawkey, 2016-Ohio-1292, 62 N.E.3d 721, ¶ 63 (3d
Dist.), quoting Rigby v. Lake Cty., 58 Ohio St.3d 269, 271, 569 N.E.2d 1056 (1991).
“An abuse of discretion has been described as an unreasonable, arbitrary or
unconscionable decision.” State v. Harris, 3d Dist. Hancock No. 5-99-14, 1999 WL
797159 (Sept. 30, 1999).
{¶101} “Evidence * * * admissible at trial as a hearsay exception * * * may
nonetheless be inadmissible because it violates a defendant’s right of
confrontation.” State v. Dever, 64 Ohio St.3d 401, 415, 596 N.E.2d 436 (1992).
“The question of whether a criminal defendant’s rights under the Confrontation
Clause have been violated is reviewed under a de novo standard.” State v. Douglas,
3d Dist. Marion No. 9-05-24, 2005-Ohio-6304, ¶ 39, citing United States v.
Robinson, 389 F.3d 582, 592 (6th Cir. 2004).
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The Confrontation Clause guarantees the right of defendants in
criminal cases ‘to be confronted with the witnesses against him.’
Crawford [v. Washington, 541 U.S. 36,] 38, 124 S.Ct. 1354 [158
L.Ed.2d 177 (2004)]. Since a witness is a person who ‘bear[s]
testimony,’ Id. at 51, 124 S.Ct. 1354, quoting 2 N. Webster, An
American Dictionary of the English Language (1828), ‘the
Confrontation Clause applies only to testimonial statements.’
State v. Muttart, 116 Ohio St.3d 5, 2007-Ohio-5267, 875 N.E.2d
944, ¶ 59, citing State v. Stahl, 111 Ohio St.3d 186, 2006-Ohio-
5482, 855 N.E.2d 834, ¶ 15. For testimonial hearsay to be
admitted, the witness must be ‘unavailable to testify, and the
defendant [must have] had a prior opportunity for cross-
examination.’ Crawford at 54, 124 S.Ct. 1354. With
nontestimonial hearsay, however, ‘the States [have] flexibility in
the development of hearsay law.’ Id. at 68, 124 S.Ct. 1354.
State v. Little, 2016-Ohio-8398, 78 N.E.3d 323 (3d Dist.). However,
[t]here is * * * no dispute that the Confrontation Clause ‘does not
bar the use of testimonial statements for purposes other than
establishing the truth of the matter asserted.’ Crawford at 59, 124
S.Ct. 1354, 158 L.Ed.2d 177, fn. 9. * * *.
(Citations omitted.) State v. Ricks, 136 Ohio St.3d 356, 2013-Ohio-3712, 995
N.E.2d 1181, ¶ 18. See State v. Maxwell, 139 Ohio St.3d 12, 2014-Ohio-1019, 9
N.E.3d 930, ¶ 131 (finding that “the Confrontation Clause did not apply” to
statements that “were not offered to establish the truth of the matter asserted.”).
Legal Analysis
{¶102} At trial, the State sought to admit a series of text messages that had
been exchanged between Ashley and Berry in the twenty-four hours preceding her
death. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 70. See Doc. 182. Berry challenged the text messages that
Ashley had sent to Berry. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 72. The trial court admitted these text
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messages because Berry’s statements were admissions by a party opponent and
because Ashley’s statements were not offered for the truth of the matters asserted.
Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 71-73.
{¶103} Under Evid.R. 802(D)(2)(a), “a statement is not hearsay if * * * [t]he
statement is offered against a party and is * * * the party’s own statement * * *.”
Evid.R. 802(D)(2)(a). “[M]ultiple courts have held that text messages sent by a
defendant are not hearsay pursuant to Evid.R. 801(D)(2).” State v. Norris, 2016-
Ohio-5729, 76 N.E.3d 405, ¶ 32 (2d Dist.), citing State v. Miller, 1st Dist. Hamilton
No. C-130774, 2015-Ohio-330, ¶ 17; State v. Shaw, 2013-Ohio-5292, 4 N.E.3d 406,
¶ 43 (7th Dist.); State v. Bickerstaff, 11th Dist. Ashtabula No. 2014-A-0054, 2015-
Ohio-4014, ¶ 15; State v. Davis, 2016-Ohio-1166, 61 N.E.3d 650 (12th Dist.). Thus,
the text messages sent by Berry are statements made by a party opponent under
Evid.R. 802(D)(2)(a) and are not, therefore, hearsay. See State v. Irwin, 2d Dist.
Montgomery No. 26224, 2015-Ohio-195, ¶ 19; State v. Stapleton, 4th Dist.
Pickaway No. 19CA7, 2020-Ohio-4479, ¶ 24.
{¶104} Further, “[i]f a statement is not offered for the truth of the matter
asserted * * *, it is not prohibited by the hearsay rule * * *.” State v. LeMar, 95
Ohio St.3d 181, 2002-Ohio-2128, 767 N.E.2d 166, ¶ 59. “Accordingly, ‘testimony
which explains the actions of a witness to whom a statement was directed, such as
to explain the witness’ activities, is not hearsay.’” Id., quoting State v. Maurer, 15
Ohio St.3d 239, 262-263, 473 N.E.2d 768, 790 (1984). See State v. Osie, 140 Ohio
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St.3d 131, 2014-Ohio-2966, 16 N.E.3d 588, ¶ 122 (holding that “[a] statement is not
hearsay when introduced to show its effect on the listener.”). “Multiple courts have
held that text messages received on a defendant’s cell phone are not hearsay when
the messages are not offered for the truth of the matter asserted.” Norris at ¶ 32,
citing Miller at ¶ 17; State v. Crocker, 2015-Ohio-2528, 38 N.E.3d 369 (4th Dist.).
{¶105} In State v. Fitts, the Sixth District considered a situation that is
factually similar to the case before this Court. State v. Fitts, 6th Dist. Wood Nos.
WD-18-092, WD-18-093, 2020-Ohio-1154, ¶ 32. In Fitts, M.T., as a confidential
informant, arranged several controlled buys with the defendant over text messages.
Id. at ¶ 3. The Sixth District determined that the texts from Fitts to M.T. were not
hearsay as these statements were “admissions by a party-opponent * * * under
Evid.R. 801(D)(2)(a).” Id. at ¶ 32. However, the messages sent by M.T. to Fitts
fell into three different categories:
(1) ‘small talk’ initiated for the purpose of reestablishing the
relationship between M.T. and Fitts; (2) questions posed to Fitts
relating to various aspects of the drug transactions; and (3) details
relating to the transactions such as quantity, price, and location
of the exchanges.
Id. at ¶ 32. The Sixth District considered each of these categories of text messages
in Fitts under the Confrontation Clause. Id. at ¶ 32-34.
{¶106} First, the Sixth District found that the “small talk” messages between
M.T. and Fitts “were not offered for the truth of the matter asserted, thus the
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confrontation clause was not implicated.” Fitts at ¶ 33. Second, M.T.’s “questions
[were] not statements.’” Id. at ¶ 34.
The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, applying the analogous
federal rule, explained that ‘a question is typically not hearsay
because it does not assert the truth or falsity of a fact. A question
merely seeks answers and usually has no factual content.’ United
States v. Wright, 343 F.3d 849, 865 (6th Cir. 2003), citing
Quartararo v. Hanslmaier, 186 F.3d 91, 98 (2d Cir. 1999).
Id. For this reason, these questions did not implicate the Confrontation Clause. Id.Third, the messages “relating to the details of the purchases” “were offered to show
the effect on Fitts, to explain the events, and to provide context—they were not
offered to prove the truth of the matters asserted” and did not run afoul of the
Confrontation Clause. Id. at ¶ 35, 37. Thus, the Sixth District concluded that the
text messages from M.T. to Fitts were admissible and did not run afoul of the
Confrontation Clause. Id. at ¶ 37-38.
{¶107} Turning to the facts of this case, the text messages from Ashley to
Berry fall within the same categories set forth in Fitts. First, Ashley and Berry
began this text exchange with small talk: “Been patient holding…” Ex. 173. Ashley
discussed her sleep problems: “You have a continuous flow of energy…I do not.”
Ex 181. She also bantered with Berry: “Should’ve invited me. . . just sayin”, and “I
was going easy on you…figured youve been through enough tonight[.]” Ex. 175,
177, 181, 183, 184, 185. Following Fitts, these text messages do not constitute
hearsay as these statements were not offered for the truth of the matters asserted.
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Fitts, supra, at ¶ 33. These text messages also do not run afoul of the Confrontation
Clause. Id.
{¶108} Second, Ashley asked Berry a number of questions in the texts that
were admitted at trial: “Did you make it to dinner?”, “So how can I get that from
you?”, “So is that a no go for tonight?”, “[W]ill you accept IOU’s?”, and “Where
will you be?” Ex. 173, 177, 179, 182, 183, 193, 194. We note that a number of
these questions requested information from Berry regarding the alleged drug
transaction. Fitts, supra, at ¶ 34. These questions provide the context for Berry’s
statements and do not, in this case, “assert the truth or falsity of a fact.” Id., quoting
Wright, supra, at 865. Following Fitts, we conclude that these questions were not
statements that constituted hearsay or implicated the Confrontation Clause. Fitts,
supra, at ¶ 34.
{¶109} Third, a number of Ashley’s texts addressed “the details of the
purchases.” Fitts, supra, at ¶ 35. Ex. 179, 193, 194, 195, 196. Berry and Ashley
exchanged several texts to determine where the other person was so that they could
meet. Ex. 193, 194, 195, 196. These messages were not introduced to prove the
truth of the matters asserted but to provide context for the statements that Berry sent
to Ashley. See Doc. 182. Following Fitts, these text messages from Ashley to Berry
do not constitute inadmissible hearsay statements or run afoul of the Confrontation
Clause. Fitts, supra, at ¶ 36-17, citing Crocker, supra, at ¶ 49-51. For these reasons,
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we find the Berry’s arguments against the admission of Ashley’s texts to be without
merit.
{¶110} On appeal, Berry also argues that the State relied on the truth of the
matters asserted by Ashley in her text messages in its closing arguments. However,
the trial court gave the jurors the following instruction at the time that the text
messages between Ashley and Berry were admitted:
As it relates to the texts of the decedent Ashley Russell, you can
only—those texts are not offered to prove anything. They’re
simply—you can only consider them to prove the context, to give
meaning to, in other words, things that the defendant was saying.
So, you can consider them for that reason. You cannot consider
them for any other reason.
Jan. 16. Vol. I Tr. 73. Further, during the jury instructions, the trial court also
instructed the jurors that the contents of the opening and closing arguments of the
parties were not evidence. Jan. 16 Vol. II Tr. 50. “It is presumed that the jury
followed the trial court’s instructions.” State v. Lang, 129 Ohio St.3d 512, 2011-
Ohio-4215, 954 N.E.2d 596, ¶ 292. Since Berry has not directed us to any evidence
in the record that would cause us to dispense with this presumption, we find this
argument to be without merit.
{¶111} Having examined the materials in the record, we conclude that the
challenged texts do not constitute inadmissible hearsay and do not run afoul of the
Confrontation Clause. Thus, we do not find any error in the trial court’s decision to
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admit the text messages that had been exchanged between Ashley and Berry. As
such, Berry’s seventh assignment of error is overruled.
Eighth Assignment of Error
{¶112} In this case, both of Ashley’s parents, Tonya and Rich Russell
(“Rich”), testified as witnesses and were physically present in court during the
testimony of the other witnesses. Berry asserts that the trial court failed to separate
witnesses in this regard.
Legal Standard
{¶113} “Evid.R. 615 governs the separation and exclusion of witnesses * *
*.” State v. Schlosser, 3d Dist. Union No. 14-10-30, 2011-Ohio-4183, ¶ 14. This
provision reads, in its relevant part, as follows:
(A) Except as provided in division (B) of this rule, at the request
of a party the court shall order witnesses excluded so that they
cannot hear the testimony of other witnesses, and it may make the
order of its own motion. * * *.
(B) This rule does not authorize exclusion of any of the following
persons from the hearing:
***
(4) in a criminal proceeding, an alleged victim of the charged
offense to the extent that the alleged victim’s presence is
authorized by statute enacted by the General Assembly or by the
Ohio Constitution. As used in this rule, ‘victim’ has the same
meaning as in the provisions of the Ohio Constitution providing
rights for victims of crimes.5
5
Evid.R. 615 was amended in order “to comply with the 2017 amendment to Article I, Section 10a of the
Ohio Constitution, also known as Marsy’s Law.” 2019 Staff Note, Evid.R. 615.
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Evid.R. 615(A), (B)(4). “The purpose of separating witnesses is to prevent them
from hearing the testimony of other witnesses and tailoring their testimony
accordingly.” State v. Lawler, 6th Dist. Lucas No. L-03-1025, 2005-Ohio-134, ¶
24.
{¶114} Matters regarding the “separation of witnesses ‘[are] ordinarily * * *
within the sound discretion of the trial court.’” State v. Williams, 2018-Ohio-974,
108 N.E.3d 758, ¶ 29 (10th Dist.), quoting State v. Smith, 49 Ohio St.3d 137, 142,
551 N.E.2d 190, 195 (1990). “Whether or not the trial court has properly exercised
his discretion as to a separation of witnesses must be determined in the light of the
facts and circumstances of each case.” State v. Williams, 3d Dist. Marion No. 9-80-
29, 1981 WL 6806, *2 (Mar. 11, 1981), quoting State v. Slone, 40 Ohio App.2d 523,
320 N.E.2d 720 (10th Dist. 1974), quoting 53 American Jurisprudence 46, Trial,
Section 31. On appeal, “[i]t is incumbent upon the appellant to affirmatively
demonstrate prejudice * * *.” Id. See also State v. Hohvart, 7th Dist. Mahoning
No. 06 MA 43, 2007-Ohio-5349, ¶ 31.
{¶115} If a party fails to object to issues regarding the separation of witnesses
before the trial court, all but plain error is waived on appeal. Schlosser, supra, at ¶
12-15. We reincorporate the standard for plain error set forth under the third
assignment of error above.
Legal Analysis
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{¶116} On appeal, Berry argues that Rich and Tonya should have been
subject to a separation order since both were called by the State as witnesses.6
However, defense counsel did not raise the issue of the separation of witnesses to
the trial court before Tonya or Rich were called as witnesses. For this reason, we
will review these arguments for plain error only.
{¶117} In his brief, Berry does not explain how the outcome of his trial would
have been different if Rich and Tonya had been separated as witnesses. Rich and
Tonya’s testimony largely provided background information about Ashley’s
addiction and her relationship with Berry over the past several years. Jan. 14 Vol.
II Tr. 24-100. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr. 364-371. While Rich and Tonya provided
testimony that was relevant to this case, they did not generally provide testimony
that tended to establish the essential elements of the charges against Berry.
{¶118} Having reviewed the materials in the record, we cannot conclude that
the outcome of this proceeding would have been different if Rich and Tonya had
been subject to a separation of witnesses order. Thus, Berry has not carried the
burden of establishing plain error in this argument. For this reason, his eighth
assignment of error is overruled.
6
On June 8, 2020, the prosecution filed a notice (“notice”) with the trial court that addressed the issue of the
separation of witnesses. Doc. 176. The prosecution asserted that Ashley’s family members had a
constitutional right under Marsy’s Law to be present for the entirety of the trial and could not be excluded.
Doc. 176. The Defense did not file a motion in response to this notice or raise an objection to the claims
made therein. See Appellant’s Brief, 23. Further, the trial court did not make a ruling related to the assertions
contained in the State’s notice that is challenged in this appeal. While the State relies on the arguments
contained in its pretrial notice in this appeal, we need not resort to an analysis that relies on Marsy’s Law to
resolve the specific arguments raised by Berry in this assignment of error.
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Ninth Assignment of Error
{¶119} Berry argues that several of his trial counsel’s decisions constitute
ineffective assistance of counsel.
Legal Standard
{¶120} “Under Ohio law, ‘a properly licensed attorney is presumed to carry
out his duties in a competent manner.’” State v. Harvey, 3d Dist. Marion No. 9-19-
34, 2020-Ohio-329, ¶ 57, quoting State v. Gee, 3d Dist. Putnam No. 12-92-9, 1993
WL 270995 (July 22, 1993). “For this reason, the appellant has the burden of
proving that he or she was denied the right to the effective assistance of counsel.”
State v. Cartlidge, 3d Dist. Seneca No. 13-19-44, 2020-Ohio-3615, ¶ 39. “In order
to prove an ineffective assistance of counsel claim, the appellant must carry the
burden of establishing (1) that his or her counsel’s performance was deficient and
(2) that this deficient performance prejudiced the defendant.” McWay, supra, at ¶
24, quoting Strickland v. Washington, 466 U.S. 668, 687, 104 S.Ct. 2052, 80
L.Ed.2d 674 (1984).
{¶121} In order to establish deficient performance, the appellant must
demonstrate that trial “counsel made errors so serious that counsel was not
functioning as the ‘counsel’ guaranteed the defendant by the Sixth Amendment.”
State v. Howton, 3d Dist. Allen No. 1-16-35, 2017-Ohio-4349, ¶ 35, quoting
Strickland at 687. “[D]ebatable trial tactics do not establish ineffective assistance
of counsel.” State v. Queen, 3d Dist. Logan No. 8-19-41, 2020-Ohio-618, ¶ 14,
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quoting State v. Conway, 109 Ohio St.3d 412, 2006-Ohio-2815, 848 N.E.2d 810, ¶
101.
{¶122} In order to establish prejudice, “the defendant must show a reasonable
probability that, but for counsel’s errors, the result of the proceeding would have
been different.” Davis, supra, at ¶ 36, quoting State v. Bibbs, 2016-Ohio-8396, 78
N.E.3d 343, ¶ 13 (3d Dist.). If the appellant does not establish one of these two
prongs, the appellate court does not need to consider the facts of the case under the
other prong of the test. State v. Baker, 3d Dist. Allen No. 1-17-61, 2018-Ohio-3431,
¶ 19, citing State v. Walker, 2016-Ohio-3499, 66 N.E.3d 349, ¶ 20 (3d Dist.).
Legal Analysis
{¶123} Failure to Request a Jury Instruction on Causation: Berry first argues
that his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to request a general jury instruction
on the element of causation after the trial court failed to include one. However,
under this third assignment of error, we concluded that the trial court did, in fact,
give the jury an instruction on causation. Accordingly, his trial counsel did not need
to make a request for an explanation of causation to be included in the jury
instructions. The failure to make an unnecessary request does not constitute
deficient performance. Thus, this argument is without merit.
{¶124} Failure to Request a Burrage Jury Instruction: Berry next asserts that
his defense counsel failed to request a specific jury instruction based upon the
United States Supreme Court’s decision in Burrage v. U.S. See Burrage, supra.-61-
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Generally, trial “counsel’s decision not to request a jury instruction falls within the
ambit of trial strategy.” Conway, supra, at ¶ 111. We note that Burrage is only
persuasive authority for Ohio courts. See Price, supra, at ¶ 28. Further, in his brief,
Berry does not assert a single argument to establish that he was prejudiced by his
trial counsel’s failure to make this request for a specific jury instruction.
Accordingly, he has not carried the burden of establishing an ineffective assistance
of counsel claim with this argument.
{¶125} Failure to Cross-Examine the Confidential Informant: Berry argues
that his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to cross-examine G.C. However,
the decision whether to cross-examine a witness is a matter of trial strategy that “is
firmly committed to the trial counsel’s judgment * * *.” State v. Grate, 2020-Ohio-
5584, --- N.E.3d ---, ¶ 148 (holding that defense counsel is not required to conduct
a cross-examination of every witness), quoting State v. Otte, 74 Ohio St.3d 555,
565, 660 N.E.2d 711 (1996). At trial, G.C. adamantly refused to testify on direct
examination and was held in contempt. Jan. 14 Vol. I Tr. 152. There is no indication
that G.C. would have answered questions on cross-examination. Further, Berry has
not demonstrated how the outcome of his trial would have been different if defense
counsel had cross-examined G.C. Thus, he has failed to establish an ineffective
assistance of counsel claim with this argument.
{¶126} Failure to Call an Expert Witness: Berry argues that defense counsel
should have called an expert witness to rebut the findings of the State’s expert
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witnesses. In general, the decision of whether to call an expert witness is a matter
of trial strategy. State v. Cook, 3d Dist. Union No. 14-19-26, 2020-Ohio-3411, ¶
106. In this case, defense counsel vigorously cross-examined the State’s expert
witnesses. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 78-97, 107-110, 125-131, 174-184. Jan. 15 Vol. II Tr.
246-257, 261. Based on the record, defense “counsel’s decision to rely on cross-
examination appears to have been a legitimate ‘tactical decision’ * * *.” State v.
Foust, 105 Ohio St.3d 137, 2004-Ohio-7006, 823 N.E.2d 836, ¶ 97. See State v.
Hartman, 93 Ohio St.3d 274, 299, 754 N.E.2d 1150, 1177 (2001). Further, Berry
has not demonstrated how calling an expert witness would have changed the
outcome of this case.
{¶127} Failure to Investigate Lisa Crumb: Berry argues that defense counsel
failed to investigate Crumb fully even though she was the last person to see Ashely
alive. As a general matter, trial “counsel has a duty to make reasonable
investigations * * *.” State v. Bradley, 42 Ohio St.3d 136, 146, 538 N.E.2d 373,
383 (1989). Berry has alleged but has not established that defense counsel failed to
investigate Crumb. The record indicates that defense counsel came fully prepared
to cross-examine Crumb at trial. Jan. 15 Tr. 308-316. Further, Berry has not
advanced any argument in his brief that would demonstrate how the outcome of this
proceeding would have been different if defense counsel had further investigated
Crumb. Thus, this argument does not establish an ineffective assistance of counsel
claim.
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{¶128} Failure to Conduct Independent Testing: Berry asserts that defense
counsel was ineffective for failing to conduct independent tests of the evidence. As
with seeking the analysis of an independent expert witness, the decision to seek
independent testing is generally a matter of trial strategy. State v. Richardson, 5th
Dist. Richland No. 2009-CA-00027, 2009-Ohio-4867, ¶ 72. See Foust at ¶ 97; State
v. Norman, 4th Dist. Ross Nos. 08CA3059, 08CA3066, 2009-Ohio-5458, ¶ 67. In
this case, trial counsel cross-examined the analyst who tested the powdery substance
found in Ashley’s house. Jan. 15 Vol. I Tr. 80-91. Further, Berry has not advanced
a single argument on appeal that explains how he was prejudiced by this decision.
Thus, this argument does not establish an ineffective assistance of counsel claim.
{¶129} Failure to Respond to the State’s Motions, Briefs, or Notices: Berry
argues that defense counsel failed to file a brief on the admissibility of Ashley’s text
messages with Berry; a response to a Marsy’s Law Notice that indicated that the
family would be present for the trial; a response to an order to compel G.C. to testify;
or a sentencing recommendation.
{¶130} While defense counsel did not file a brief on the admissibility of the
text messages between Ashley and Berry, he did argue against their admission at
trial. Jan. 13 Vol. II Tr. 43. Jan. 14 Vol. II Tr. 76. Jan. 16 Vol. I Tr. 183-184. The
trial court ruled that these messages were admissible over these objections. Further,
under the seventh assignment of error, we concluded that the trial court did not err
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in allowing the jury to consider these text messages. Thus, Berry cannot
demonstrate how filing a brief would have changed the outcome of this case.
{¶131} The record indicates that defense counsel did not file a motion in
response to the State’s notice that the family members would be present for trial
pursuant to Marsy’s Law. However, Rich and Tonya primarily provided testimony
regarding their relationship with Ashley, her prior history of substance abuse, and
her relationship with Berry over the past few years. They also generally testified
about different matters. Berry has not, on appeal, demonstrated how filing a
response to the State’s notice would have changed the outcome of this proceeding.
{¶132} Berry also argues that his trial counsel was deficient for failing to raise
an argument against the trial court’s efforts to compel G.C. to testify. However, he
cannot demonstrate how arguing against the trial court’s efforts to compel G.C. to
testify would have changed the outcome of his trial because G.C. still refused to
testify even after the trial court warned him that he could be held in contempt.
{¶133} Finally, while defense counsel did not file a formal sentencing
recommendation, he did present evidence as to the relevant sentencing factors at
Berry’s sentencing hearing. Further, Berry has not advanced any argument as to
how the outcome of these proceedings would have been different if defense counsel
had filed a formal sentencing recommendation. State v. Hawkins, 2d Dist. Greene
No. 98CA6, 1999 WL 197932, *2 (April 9, 1999).
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{¶134} Failure to Seek a Determination of Admissibility for Several of
Ashley’s Texts: Berry contends that defense counsel was ineffective for failing to
seek a preliminary determination from the trial court as to whether Ashley’s texts to
her friend, Chris Smith (“Smith”), were admissible. However,
[a] motion in limine is a precautionary ruling in anticipation of an
evidentiary issue and is not final. State v. Grubb, 28 Ohio St.3d
199, 201, 503 N.E.2d 142 (1986). ‘It is counsel’s duty to make his
own appraisal of the case and to decide when such motions are
worth filing.’
State v. Mayse, 2017-Ohio-1483, 88 N.E.3d 1208, ¶ 30 (3d Dist.), quoting State v.
Giddens, 3d Dist. Allen No. 1-02-52, 2002-Ohio-6148, ¶ 30. We note that defense
counsel, at trial, cross-examined Corporal Stone at length about Ashley’s text
messages, including those exchanged with Smith. Jan. 16 Tr. 157-169. Further,
Berry has not explained how the outcome of his trial would have been different had
defense counsel sought a preliminary ruling on these text messages.
{¶135} In each of these arguments, Berry has failed to carry the burden of
establishing an ineffective assistance of counsel claim. For this reason, his ninth
assignment of error is overruled.
Tenth Assignment of Error
{¶136} Berry argues that the trial court erred by imposing the maximum
prison term on him for this crime.
Legal Standard
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{¶137} In rendering a sentence, “[t]he trial court has full discretion to impose
any sentence within the authorized statutory range * * *.” State v. Dayton, 3d Dist.
Union No. 14-16-05, 2016-Ohio-7178, ¶ 15, quoting State v. King, 2d Dist. Clark
Nos. 2012-CA-25, 2012-CA-26, 2013-Ohio-2021, ¶ 45. However, in this process,
trial courts are to sentence convicted felons in accordance with the overriding
purposes of felony sentencing, which
are to protect the public from future crime by the offender and
others, to punish the offender, and to promote the effective
rehabilitation of the offender using the minimum sanctions that
the court determines accomplish those purposes without imposing
an unnecessary burden on state or local government resources.
To achieve those purposes, the sentencing court shall consider the
need for incapacitating the offender, deterring the offender and
others from future crime, rehabilitating the offender, and making
restitution to the victim of the offense, the public, or both.
R.C. 2929.11. “To effectuate compliance with these overriding purposes, the Ohio
Revised Code requires the trial court to consider a number of factors listed in R.C.
2929.12.” State v. Walton, 3d Dist. Logan No. 8-17-55, 2018-Ohio-1680, ¶ 6. The
R.C. 2929.12 factors direct the trial court to evaluate the seriousness of the offense
and the likelihood of recidivism. R.C. 2929.12.
{¶138} “Appellate courts defer to the broad discretion of the trial court in
matters of sentencing.” State v. Jones, 3d Dist. Shelby No. 17-19-08, 2019-Ohio-
4938, ¶ 7. If the defendant establishes by clear and convincing evidence that his or
her sentence is “(1) contrary to law and/or (2) unsupported by the record,” an
appellate court has the authority, pursuant to R.C. 2953.08(G)(2), “to increase,
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reduce, or otherwise modify a sentence * * *.” State v. McGowan, 147 Ohio St.3d
166, 2016-Ohio-2971, 62 N.E.3d 178, ¶ 1.
{¶139} Thus, “[u]nder R.C. 2953.08(G)(2), an appellate court will reverse a
sentence ‘only if it determines by clear and convincing evidence that the record does
not support the trial court’s findings under relevant statutes or that the sentence is
otherwise contrary to law.’” State v. Nienberg, 3d Dist. Putnam Nos. 12-16-15 and
12-16-16, 2017-Ohio-2920, ¶ 8, quoting State v. Marcum, 146 Ohio St.3d 516,
2016-Ohio-1002, 59 N.E.3d 1231, ¶ 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.
Taflinger, supra, ¶ 12, quoting Cross v. Ledford, 161 Ohio St. 469, 120 N.E.2d 118,
53 O.O. 361, paragraph three of the syllabus (1954). However,
in State v. Jones, --- Ohio St.3d ---, 2020-Ohio-6729, the Supreme
Court of Ohio clarified the proper scope of review of felony
sentences imposed in cases * * * where the defendant’s appeal
challenged the trial court’s application of R.C. 2929.11 and
2929.12. In Jones, the court held that R.C. 2953.08(G)(2)(b) ‘does
not provide a basis for an appellate court to modify or vacate a
sentence based on its view that the sentence is not supported by
the record under R.C. 2929.11 and 2929.12.’ Id. at ¶ 39. * * *
Accordingly, “pursuant to Jones, an appellate court errs if it * *
* modifies or vacates a sentence ‘based on the lack of support in
the record for the trial court’s findings under R.C. 2929.11 and
R.C. 2929.12.’” [State v.] Dorsey, [2d Dist. Montgomery No.
28747,] 2021-Ohio-76, at ¶ 17, quoting Jones at ¶ 29.
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State v. Slife, 3d Dist. Auglaize No. 2-20-17, 2021-Ohio-644, ¶ 13.
Legal Analysis
{¶140} After considering the contents of a presentence investigation (“PSI”)
and several victim impact statements, the trial court expressly considered the
overriding purposes of felony sentencing at the hearing. R.C. 2929.11(A). March
6 Tr. 38. The trial court found that “the shortest prison term would demean the
seriousness of the offense and would not protect the public.” March 6 Tr. 38. In
particular, the trial court determined that his criminal history indicated that a longer
sentence would be necessary to protect the public. March 6 Tr. 38. Further, the trial
court also found that Berry’s lack of remorse would impede his rehabilitation.
March 6 Tr. 34.
{¶141} As to the seriousness factors, the trial court noted that the victim of
the offense, Ashley, suffered serious physical harm as the result of this offense.
March 6 Tr. 34. See R.C. 2929.12(B)(2). The trial court also found that Berry’s
relationship with the victim facilitated the offense of involuntary manslaughter as
Berry referred to Ashley as his “friend” and “lover” at his sentencing hearing.
March 6 Tr. 26, 34-35, 36. See R.C. 2929.12(B)(6). However, Defense counsel
argued that “[t]he victim induced or facilitated the offense” as she requested strong
narcotics from Berry. R.C. 2929.12(C)(1). March 6 Tr. 19. He also stated that
Berry did not “expect[] to cause physical harm” to Ashley. March 6 Tr. 19-20. See
R.C. 2929.12(C)(3).
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{¶142} As to the recidivism factors, the trial court noted Berry had two prior
convictions for trafficking in drugs. March 6 Tr. 4. PSI. Berry also had convictions
for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and for operating a
vehicle under the influence. March 6 Tr. 34. PSI. See R.C. 2929.12(D)(2). The
trial court also noted that the offenses for which he was being sentenced were the
offenses that began his criminal history twenty-five years earlier. March 6 Tr. 36.
PSI. See R.C. 2929.12(D)(3). The trial court determined that Berry did not respond
favorably to these prior sanctions. Doc. 206.
{¶143} At the sentencing hearing, the State played a recording of a call that
Berry had made from jail. March 6 Tr. 6. The following exchange took place in
this call:
[Berry]: The rat b*****d system that we have in America has
failed again. The rat b*****d. Again. So this is what the rest of
my life looks like.
[Unidentified]: Okay.
[Berry]: Where’s Ashley Russell’s accountability in all this?
Some little rich girl kills herself on dope and I’m the one that has
to go pay for the body. Where’s her accountability?
[Unidentified]: (Inaudible).
[Berry]: Yeah. Where’s her accountability in all of this?
[Unidentified]: I’ll tell you where it’s at. It’s up Lieutenant
Detective Stone’s a**hole right where her face is.
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[Berry]: They got me so (inaudible) in this thing, bro, and that’s
it. You know what I’m saying? And that’s it. They’re just going
to throw my life away cause they can. This wasn’t a fair trial.
March 6 Tr. 6-7. The trial court also found that Berry did not demonstrate any
remorse or take responsibility for his actions. See R.C. 2929.12(D)(5).
{¶144} Defense counsel argued that Berry did care for Ashley and was
remorseful over “her loss.” March 6 Tr. 21. Further, Berry produced a statement
in which he said he would “trade [him]self for Ashley” if he could. March 6 Tr. 5.
See R.C. 2929.12(E)(5). Berry also admitted that he had a long history of addiction
but stated that he had been sober for the five months previous to his sentencing
hearing. March Tr. 26, 27. PSI. See R.C. 2929.12(D)(4). The trial court also took
into account the fact that Berry had an Ohio Risk Assessment System score of
eighteen, which signified “a moderate risk of re-offending.” March 6 Tr. 37.
{¶145} After reviewing the evidence in the record, it is clear that the trial court
considered the relevant factors in R.C. 2929.11 and R.C. 2929.12 in the process of
sentencing Berry. Under Jones, “R.C. 2953.08(G)(2)(b) therefore does not provide
a basis for an appellate court to modify or vacate a sentence based on its view that
the sentence is not supported by the record under R.C. 2929.11 and 2929.12.” Jones,
supra, at ¶ 39. Accordingly, Berry has not carried requisite burden on appeal. Thus,
Berry’s tenth assignment of error is overruled.
Conclusion
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{¶146} Having found no error prejudicial to the appellant in the particulars
assigned and argued, the judgment of Union County Court of Common Pleas is
affirmed.
Judgment Affirmed
SHAW and ZIMMERMAN, J.J., concur.
/hls
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