State v. Romy

[Cite as State v. Romy, 2021-Ohio-501.]
COURT OF APPEALS
STARK COUNTY, OHIO
FIFTH APPELLATE DISTRICT
STATE OF OHIO JUDGES:
Hon. Craig R. Baldwin, P. J.
Plaintiff-Appellee Hon. William B. Hoffman, J.
Hon. John W. Wise, J.
-vs-
Case No. 2020 CA 00066
REBECCA LYNN ROMY
Defendant-Appellant OPINION
CHARACTER OF PROCEEDING: Criminal Appeal from the Court of Common
Pleas, Case No. 2019 CR 2234B
JUDGMENT: Affirmed
DATE OF JUDGMENT ENTRY: February 24, 2021
APPEARANCES:
For Plaintiff-Appellee For Defendant-Appellant
JOHN D. FERRERO KRISTIN L. ZALENSKI
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY 116 Cleveland Avenue, NW
RONALD MARK CALDWELL Suite 808
ASSISTANT PROSECUTOR Canton, Ohio 44702
110 Central Plaza South, Suite 510
Canton, Ohio 44702-1413
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 2
Wise, J.
{¶1} Appellant, Rebecca Romy, appeals the judgment entered by the Stark
County Court of Common Pleas convicting her of violating R.C. 2907.05(B), Gross Sexual
Imposition, and R.C. 2919.22(B)(2) Endangering Children. Appellee is the State of Ohio.
The relevant facts leading to this appeal are as follows.
STATEMENT OF THE FACTS AND CASE
{¶2} On November 19, 2019, the Stark County Grand Jury indicted Appellant
with one count of Gross Sexual Imposition in violation of R.C. 2907.05(B) and
Endangering Children in violation of R.C. 2919.22(B)(2).
{¶3} On December 6, 2019, Appellant entered a plea of not guilty to both counts
of the indictment.
{¶4} On January 15, 2020, Appellant filed a Motion for Appropriation of Funds
for Expert Assistance.
{¶5} On February 3, 2020, Appellant filed a Daubert Motion and Motion in Limine
to exclude testimony by Appellee’s expert.
{¶6} On February 12, 2020, the trial court denied Appellant’s Motion for
Appropriation of Funds for Expert Assistance, Appellant’s Daubert Motion, and
Appellant’s Motion in Limine to exclude the testimony of Appellee’s expert.
{¶7} On February 19, 2020, the matter proceeded to a jury trial.
{¶8} At trial, the State first called MB to testify. On direct examination, MB
testified that CS had lived with her since April of 2018, and that she was currently CS’s
legal guardian. MB continued that, in September of 2018, MB, when CS was ten years
old, had noticed CS had spread peanut butter all over his belly and down in his boxers.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 3
CS was allowing the dogs to lick the peanut butter off. After giving CS a bath, MB’s adult
daughter asked CS where he learned to do that. CS explained that his mother, Appellant,
and her boyfriend, Chad Newman, had done that to him. MB then contacted Child
Protective Services and brought CS in for an interview. MB then testified she took CS to
Carrie Schnirring for a psychological assessment.
{¶9} Next, the State called CS to testify. On direct examination, CS testified that
Appellant held CS’s legs down while Newman put peanut butter on his rectum and penis,
then had the dog lick the peanut butter off. CS identified Appellant as having held down
his legs.
{¶10} On cross examination, CS testified that he was watching tv on the couch
just prior to the incident. CS also testified that Newman, as well as the dog, licked the
peanut butter, and that Newman had done this to another neighborhood boy.
{¶11} After CS testified, trial counsel for Appellant moved for a mistrial claiming
the trial court judge admonished him in front of the jury, thereby tainting the jury and
putting Appellant in a position where she would not receive a fair trial. The trial court
denied the motion.
{¶12} The State then called Detective Mongold to testify. Detective Mongold
testified that he investigated the abuse of CS with Newman as the primary suspect and
Appellant as a witness. As the investigation developed, Mongold stated information came
out that Appellant was an active participant in the abuse, and not just a witness. Mongold
further testified he had trouble locating the residence where the incident took place, but
eventually identified it.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 4
{¶13} Next, the State called Kelly Stoffer to testify. Stoffer testified that during her
in-home visit with MB and CS, everything seemed appropriate. Stoffer interviewed
Appellant, at which point Appellant said she did not remember the incident, but that she
believed Newman to be capable of such things.
{¶14} The State also called Kathleen Nduati, a pediatric nurse practitioner. She
testified that from the information CS gave her, she diagnosed child sex abuse.
{¶15} The State then called Carrie Schnirring. Schnirring testified that she
conducted a psychological evaluation on CS and diagnosed CS with having adjustment
disorder with mixed disturbance of emotion and conduct.
{¶16} The State then rested its case-in-chief.
{¶17} Before Appellant’s attorney presented Appellant’s case-in-chief, it came to
the court’s attention that jurors had been discussing the case. Juror No. 65 indicated his
dislike for defense counsel and was subsequently dismissed. Juror No. 19 stated that the
trial would last a little longer as the defense would have to present their case. Juror No.
11 said the defense has to prove its case and that takes time.
{¶18} Appellant’s attorney called KS to testify. KS testified that the residence
believed to be the house where the incident took place had no furniture or electricity.
{¶19} Appellant then took the witness stand to testify. Appellant testified that CS
lived with his grandfather for most of his life. She testified that the only furnishing in the
residence she shared with Newman were a mattress and box springs. She continued that
the only utility they had was water, no electricity. She denied ever witnessing or
participating in any abuse of CS.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 5
{¶20} Appellant’s trial counsel then rested the case and moved that based upon
all the evidence, the State did not prove its case by proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
{¶21} The trial court overruled the motion.
{¶22} On February 21, 2020, the jury returned a verdict of guilty on both counts of
the indictment.
{¶23} On February 24, 2020, the trial court sentenced Appellant to five years of
incarceration.
ASSIGNMENT OF ERROR
{¶24} On March 24, 2020, Appellant filed a notice of appeal. He herein raises the
following nine Assignments of Error:
{¶25} “I. THE COURT COMMITTED REVERSIBLE ERROR IN EXCLUDING
TESTIMONY REGARDING AN ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURE BY THE ALLEGED VICTIM
INVOLVING A SECOND VICTIM NEARLY CONTEMPORANEOUS WITH THE
CHARGED CRIMINAL CONDUCT.
{¶26} “II. THE TRIAL COURT ERRED IN PERMITTING THE TESTIMONY OF
MS. SCHNIRRING AS IT SERVED AS IMPROPER VOUCHING FOR THE CREDIBILITY
OF C.S. AND THE VERACITY OF HIS STATEMENTS WHICH IMPERMISSIBLY
USURPED THE ROLE OF THE JURY.
{¶27} “III. TRIAL COURT ERRED IN DENYING APPELLANT’S PRAYER FOR
FUNDS FOR AN EXPERT WITNESS, DENYING APPELLANT OF HER RIGHTS TO
DUE PROCESS UNDER THE FIFTH AND FOURTEENTH AMENDMENTS AND
SECTION 16, ARTICLE I OF THE OHIO CONSTITUTION.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 6
{¶28} “IV. THE TRIAL COURT ERRED IN DENYING APPELLANT’S REQUEST
TO SUBJECT MS. SCHNIRRING’S METHODOLOGY TO A DAUBERT HEARING.
{¶29} “V. APPELLANT [SIC] COUNSEL ENGAGED IN INEFFECTIVE
ASSISTANCE AFTER FAILING TO REQUEST A CURATIVE INSTRUCTION AFTER
THREE JURORS DISCUSSED THE NEED FOR THE DEFENSE TO ‘PROVE ITS
CASE.’
{¶30} “VI. THE TRIAL JUDGE’S REPEATED COMMENTS ON TRIAL
COUNSEL’S PERFORMANCE UNDULY INFLUENCED THE JURY AND INDICATED A
LACK OF IMPARTIALITY.
{¶31} “VII. APPELLANT COUNSEL ENGAGED IN INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE
IN DECLINING TO WITHDRAW DESPITE A PERCEIVED, INTRACTABLE DISPUTE
WITH THE COURT.
{¶32} “VIII. THE TRIAL JUDGE VIOLATED APPELLANT’S FIFTH AND
FOURTEENTH AMENDMENT RIGHTS AGAINST CRUEL AND UNUSUAL
PUNISHMENT IN IMPOSING AN EXCESSIVE SENTENCE OF THE STATUTORY
MAXIMUM OF 5 YEARS.
{¶33} “IX. THE JURY FUNDAMENTALLY LOST ITS WAY IN ENTERING
FINDINGS OF GUILT AGAINST THE MANIFEST WEIGHT OF THE EVIDENCE.”
I.
{¶34} In Appellant’s first Assignment of Error, Appellant argues the trial court erred
in excluding evidence that CS had seen Newman go to a neighboring house and engage
in the same abusive conduct with a four-year-old boy. We disagree.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 7
{¶35} Appellant cites no statutory, case law, rules of evidence, or learned treatise
from this or any other jurisdiction to support her argument. Accordingly, Appellant’s brief
does not comply with App.R. 16(A)(7), which provides,
The appellant shall include in its brief, under the headings and in the
order indicated, all of the following * * * An argument containing the
contentions of the appellant with respect to each assignment of error
presented for review and the reasons in support of the contentions, with
citations to the authorities, statutes, and parts of the record on which
appellant relies. The argument may be preceded by a summary.
{¶36} “If an argument exists that can support [an] assignment of error, it is not this
court’s duty to root it out.” Thomas v. Harmon, 4th Dist. Lawrence No. 08CA17, 2009-
Ohio-3299, at ¶14, quoting State v. Carman, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 90512, 2008-Ohio-
4368, at ¶31. “It is not the function of this court to construct a foundation for [an
appellant’s] claims; failure to comply with the rules governing practice in the appellate
courts is a tactic which is ordinarily fatal.” Catanzarite v. Boswell, 9th Dist. Summit No.
24184, 2009-Ohio-1211, at ¶16, quoting Kremer v. Cox, 114 Ohio App.3d 41, 60, 682
N.E.2d 1006 (9th Dist. 1996). Therefore, “[w]e may disregard any assignment of error that
fails to present any citations to case law or statutes in support of its assertions.” Frye v.
Holzer Clinic, Inc., 4th Gallia No. 07CA4, 2008-Ohio-2194, at ¶12. See, also, App.R.
16(A)(7); App.R. 12(A)(2); Albright v. Albright, 4th Dist. Lawrence No. 06CA35, 2007-Ohio-
3709, at ¶16; Tally v. Patrick, 11th Dist. Trumbull No. 2008-T-0072, 2009-Ohio-1831, at
¶21-22; Jarvis v. Stone, 9th Dist. Summit No. 23904, 2008-Ohio-3313, at ¶23; State v.
Paulsen, 4th Hocking Nos. 09CA15, 2010-Ohio-806, ¶6; State v. Norman, 5th Guernsey
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 8
No. 2010-CA-22, 2011-Ohio-596, ¶29; State v. Untied, 5th Dist. Muskingum No.
CT20060005, 2007 WL 1122731, ¶141.
{¶37} An appellate court may rely upon App.R. 12(A) in overruling or disregarding
an assignment of error because of “the lack of briefing” on the assignment of error. Hawley
v. Ritley, 35 Ohio St.3d 157, 159, 519 N.E.2d 390, 392-393 (1988); Abon, Ltd. v.
Transcontinental Ins. Co., 5th Dist. Richland No. 2004-CA-0029, 2005 WL 1414486, ¶100;
State v. Miller, 5th Dist. Ashland No. 04-COA-003, 2004-Ohio-4636, ¶41. “Errors not
treated in the brief will be regarded as having been abandoned by the party who gave
them birth.” Uncapher v. Baltimore & Ohio Rd. Co., 127 Ohio St. 351, 356, 188 N.E. 553,
555 (1933).
{¶38} In the interest of justice we will proceed to consider this assignment of error.
{¶39} A criminal defendant has a right to a fair opportunity to defend against the
State’s accusations. Chambers v. Mississippi, 410 U.S. 284, 294 (1973). However, this
right is not absolute and applies only to evidence admissible under the rules of evidence.
State v. Swann, 119 Ohio St.3d 552, 2008-Ohio-4837. “Ordinarily, a trial court is vested
with broad discretion in determining the admissibility of evidence in any particular case,
so long as such discretion is exercised in line with the rules of procedure and evidence.”
Rigby v. Lake City, 58 Ohio St.3d 269, 271 (1991). The appellate court must limit its
review of the trial court’s admission or exclusion of evidence to whether the trial court
abused its discretion Id. The abuse of discretion standard is more than an error of
judgment; it implies the court ruled arbitrarily, unreasonably, or unconscionably.
Blakemore v. Blakemore, 5 Ohio St.3d 217 (1983).
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 9
{¶40} Appellant alleges in her brief that the trial court abused its discretion by not
allowing defense counsel to question CS in regard to CS reporting that Newman abused
a second child in a similar manner, but Appellant did not participate in this alleged
incident. The trial court ruled that the alleged incident between Newman and the second
boy was not relevant to the issues in this case.
{¶41} Ohio Evid.R. 401 defines “[r]elevant evidence” as “evidence having any
tendency to make the existence of any fact that is of consequence to the determination
of the action more probable or less probable than it would be without the evidence.”
{¶42} Ohio Evid.R. 616 states:
In addition to other methods, a witness may be impeached by any of
the following methods:
***
(C) Specific Contradiction. Facts contradicting a witness’s
testimony may be shown for the purpose of impeaching the witness’s
testimony…
{¶43} As a general rule, all relevant evidence is admissible. Ohio Evid.R. 402. Our
task is to look at the totality of the circumstances in the case sub judice and determine
whether the trial court acted unreasonably, arbitrarily or unconscionably in allowing or
excluding the disputed evidence. State v. Oman, 5th Dist. Stark No. 1999CA00027, 2000
WL 222190.
{¶44} An exception to the general rule is that relevant evidence is inadmissible if
its probative value is “substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice, of
confusion of the issue, or of misleading the jury.” Ohio Evid.R. 403(A).
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 10
{¶45} CS reported to Mongold that CS saw Newman go to a neighboring house
and engage in the same peanut-butter conduct with a four-year-old boy. The police were
unable to verify the identity of the four-year-old boy. Appellant sought to question Mongold
about not being able to locate the boy.
{¶46} Upon review of the entire record, the trial court did not abuse its discretion
when finding that CS’s reporting the alleged abuse of a second boy, which Appellant is
not alleged to know of or participate in, is not relevant to Appellant’s case. Appellant
claims that the questioning was a challenge to C.S.’s credibility. Under Ohio Evid.R.
616(C), Appellant may show facts contradicting witness testimony; however, the fact that
police could not locate the four-year-old boy does not contradict the testimony, and the
trial court did not abuse its discretion precluding Appellant from questioning CS or
Mongold about the alleged abuse of the neighborhood boy.
{¶47} Appellant’s First Assignment of Error is Overruled.
II.
{¶48} In Appellant’s Second Assignment of Error, Appellant argues the trial court
erred in allowing Carrie Schnirring to testify that CS’s age and cognitive delays would
make it unlikely he could retell a story of abuse consistently had the story been fabricated.
We disagree.
{¶49} Again, a criminal defendant has a right to a fair opportunity to defend against
the State’s accusations. Chambers v. Mississippi, 410 U.S. 284, 294 (1973). However,
this right is not absolute and applies only to evidence admissible under the rules of
evidence. State v. Swann, 119 Ohio St.3d 552, 2008-Ohio-4837. “Ordinarily, a trial court
is vested with broad discretion in determining the admissibility of evidence in any
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 11
particular case, so long as such discretion is exercised in line with the rules of procedure
and evidence.” Rigby v. Lake City, 58 Ohio St.3d 269, 271 (1991). The appellate court
must limit its review of the trial court’s admission or exclusion of evidence to whether the
trial court abused its discretion Id. The abuse of discretion standard is more than an error
of judgment; it implies the court ruled arbitrarily, unreasonably, or unconscionably.
Blakemore v. Blakemore, 5 Ohio St.3d 217 (1983).
{¶50} An expert may not testify as to the expert’s opinion of the veracity of the
statements of a child declarant. State v. Boston, 46 Ohio St.3d 108, 545 N.E.2d 1220(1989). However, there is a difference “between expert testimony that a child witness is
telling the truth and evidence which bolsters a child credibility.” State v. Stowers, 81 Ohio
St.3d 260, 262-263, 690 N.E.2d 882 (1998). Thus, an expert can testify that a child’s
behavior is consistent with the behavior of other children who have been sexually
assaulted.” Id.{¶51} The evidentiary admissions in the case sub judice are distinguishable from
Boston. First, this was not a situation where a witness attests to the credibility of a child-
victim who has been found incompetent to testify. In addition, “Boston does not proscribe
testimony which is additional support for the truth of the facts testified to by the child, or
which assists the fact finder in assessing the child’s veracity.” See Stowers at 263.
{¶52} Schnirring did not testify as to the veracity of CS’s statements. Instead, her
testimony was offered to show that CS was a victim of sex abuse because his behavior
was common in children who have been abused, and that someone with developmental
delays and cognitive disabilities would have a hard time maintaining consistency in a
fabricated story.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 12
{¶53} We find Schnirring’s testimony not to be within the purview of Boston. The
trial court did not abuse its discretion by admitting Schnirring’s testimony.
{¶54} Appellant’s Second Assignment of Error is overruled.
III.
{¶55} In Appellant’s Third Assignment of Error, Appellant argues the trial court
should have granted Appellant funds for an expert witness.
{¶56} The Ohio Supreme Court has held, “it is appropriate to consider three
factors in determining whether the provision of an expert witness is required: 1) the effect
on the defendant’s private interest in the accuracy of the trial if the requested service is
not provided, 2) the burden on the government’s interest if the service is provided, and 3)
the probable value the additional service and the risk of error in the proceedings if the
assistance is not provided.” State v. Mason, 82 Ohio St.3d 144, 149 (1998), citing Ake v.
Oklahoma, 470 U.S. 68 (1985).
{¶57} This Court has previously held, “[i]n absence of a particularized showing of
need, due process as guaranteed by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United
States Constitution and Section 16, Article I of the Ohio Constitution does not require the
provision of an expert witness.” In re B.L., 5th Dist. Licking No. 09-CA-54, 2009-Ohio-
6341. A defendant must provide a trial court with facts sufficient to establish a
particularized need for expert assistance and must demonstrate more than a mere
possibility of assistance to receive an expert witness at the state’s expense. State v.
Nichols, 5th Dist. Fairfield No. 09-CA-50, 2010-Ohio-2242. Undeveloped assertions that
the proposed assistance would be useful to the defense are patently inadequate. Id.Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 13
{¶58} On February 3, 2020, the trial court held a hearing on Appellant’s motion for
funds for an expert clinical psychologist. Appellant requested funds to retain an expert in
the area of psychology to aid in the defense of Appellant, and who may or may not refute
Schnirring’s assertions or methodology, as Appellant’s counsel offered in the hearing.
{¶59} The State claimed Appellant failed to demonstrate a particularized need for
the expert.
{¶60} The trial court, via Judgment Entry of February 12, 2020, denied the motion
stating, “there is no need to require the minor child go relive this traumatic experience a
third time through another type of forensic interview.” The trial court made clear that when
the minor child testified, opposing counsel would have the opportunity to cross examine,
and that “[t]he jury will be the proper authority to discern the minor child’s propensity to
tell the truth, not a psychologist.”
{¶61} We find the trial court did not abuse its discretion in denying the motion as
Appellant demonstrated no particularized need for such an expert. Appellant could not
show what testimony was anticipated, only that the witness may or may not agree with
Schnirring. This is insufficient to establish the trial court abused its discretion.
{¶62} Appellant’s Third Assignment of Error is overruled.
IV.
{¶63} Appellant’s Fourth Assignment of Error claims the trial court erred in
denying Appellant a Daubert hearing relative to Schnirring’s testimony as a psychologist
who treats children who are victims of abuse; however, the law and facts argued in the
body of the Assignment of Error argues that the expert testimony should not have been
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 14
admitted by the trial court. We will address the argument raised in the body of the
argument.
{¶64} In Appellant’s Fourth Assignment of Error, Appellant argues the trial court
erred allowing Schnirring to testify as an expert in clinical psychology with a focus on
trauma. We disagree.
{¶65} Pursuant to Ohio Evid.R. 104(A), the trial court determines whether a
witness qualifies as an expert, and that determination will be overturned only for an abuse
of discretion. State v. Hartman, 93 Ohio St.3d 274, 285, 754 N.E.2d 1150; State v.
Williams (1983), 4 Ohio St.3d 53, 58, 4 OBR 144, 446 N.E.2d 444, as quoted in State v.
Thomas, 97 Ohio St.3d 309, 2002-Ohio-6624, 779 N.E.2d 1017, ¶46.
{¶66} Ohio Evid.R. 702 provides:
A witness may testify as an expert if all of the following apply:
(A) The witness’ testimony either relates to matters beyond the
knowledge or experience possessed by lay persons or dispels a
misconception common among lay persons;
(B) The witness is qualified as an expert by specialized
knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education regarding the subject
matter of the testimony;
(C) The witness’ testimony is based on reliable scientific,
technical, or other specialized information. To the extent that the testimony
reports the results of a procedure, test, or experiment, the testimony is
reliable only if all of the following apply:
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 15
(1) The theory upon which the procedure, test, or experiment is
based is objectively verifiable or is validly derived from widely accepted
knowledge, facts, or principles;
(2) The design of the procedure, test, or experiment reliably
implements the theory;
(3) The particular procedure, test, or experiment was conducted
in a way that will yield an accurate result.
{¶67} In Thomas, the Supreme Court of Ohio described the analysis for a
determination of whether a witness may serve as an expert:
Neither special education nor certification is necessary to confer
expert status upon a witness. “The individual offered as an expert need not
have complete knowledge of the field in question, as long as the knowledge
he or she possesses will aid the trier of fact in performing its fact-finding
function.” State v. Hartman, 93 Ohio St.3d at 285, 754 N.E.2d 1150; State
v. Baston, 85 Ohio St.3d 418, 423, 709 N.E.2d 128.
Thomas at ¶46.
{¶68} Schnirring was offered as an expert based on having over fifteen years of
experience in the field of clinical psychology with a focus on trauma, a Master’s degree in
clinical psychology, and a Bachelor’s degree in psychology in criminal justice. Appellant’s
counsel did not object to the trial court certifying Schnirring as an expert in the area of
clinical psychology with a focus on trauma.
{¶69} Appellant argues that because the court ruled against Appellant’s request
for a Daubert hearing in a Judgment Entry dated, February 12, 2020, “the court does not
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 16
find her testimony to be the type of scientific testimony based on scientifically valid
reasoning which would trigger a Daubert examination,” then the trial court certifying her
as an expert are irreconcilable. However, the trial court’s ultimate finding in the February
12, 2020, judgment entry, stated, “this Court finds, as have other courts in Stark County,
that Ms. Schnirring’s expertise has met the requirements of Daubert. Her methods have
been used in evaluating the alleged child victim in this case and have been reliably tested
for over decades and have gained general acceptance among mental health
professionals.”
{¶70} Schnirring provided sufficient evidence to demonstrate knowledge and
experience in the field sufficient to assist the finder of fact in its determination. We hold
that the trial court did not abuse its discretion in finding Schnirring was qualified to serve
as an expert.
{¶71} Appellant’s Fourth Assignment of Error is overruled.
V., VII.
{¶72} In Appellant’s Fifth and Seventh Assignments of Error, Appellant argues
trial counsel was ineffective as he failed to request a curative instruction when a juror
remarked the defense had to prove its case now that the State rested and declined to
withdraw as counsel. We disagree.
a. Standard of Review
{¶73} Our standard of review is set forth in Strickland v. Washington (1984), 466
U.S. 668, 104 S.Ct. 2052, 80 L.Ed. 674. Ohio adopted this standard in the case of State
v. Bradley (1989), 42 Ohio St.3d 136, 538 N.E.2d 373. These cases require a two-
pronged analysis in reviewing a claim for ineffective assistance of counsel. First, we must
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 17
determine whether counsel’s assistance was ineffective; whether counsel’s performance
fell below an objective standard of reasonable representation and was violative of any of
his essential duties to the client. If we find ineffective assistance of counsel, we must then
determine whether or not the defense was actually prejudiced by counsel’s
ineffectiveness such that the reliability of the outcome of the trial is suspect. This requires
a showing there is a reasonable probability that, but for counsel’s unprofessional error,
the outcome of the trial would have been different. Id.{¶74} Trial counsel is entitled to a strong presumption that all decisions fall within
the wide range of reasonable professional assistance. State v. Sallie (1998), 81 Ohio
St.3d 673, 675, 693 N.E.2d 267. In addition, the United States Supreme Court and the
Ohio Supreme Court have held a reviewing court “need not determine whether counsel’s
performance was deficient before examining the prejudice suffered by the defendant as
a result of the alleged deficiencies. Bradley at 143, 538 N.E.2d 373, quoting Strickland at
697, 104 S.Ct. 2052. Even debatable trial tactics and strategies do not constitute
ineffective assistance of counsel. State v. Clayton, 62 Ohio St.2d 45, 402 N.E.2d 1189(1980).
{¶75} “A presumption always exists that the jury has followed the instructions
given to it by the trial court.” Pang v. Minch, 53 Ohio St.3d 186, 187, 559 N.E.2d 1313(1990), at paragraph four of the syllabus, rehearing denied, 54 Ohio St.3d 716, 562
N.E.2d 163.
b. Failure to request curative jury instruction
{¶76} After the State had rested its case, it came to the trial court’s attention that
jurors had been engaging in conversations about how much longer the case would last.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 18
One juror commented that, after the State rested, the defense attorney has to prove its
case, and that it would take some time.
{¶77} At the close of evidence the trial court instructed the jury, “[i]f you find the
State proved beyond a reasonable doubt all the essential elements of gross sexual
imposition, your verdict must be guilty.” Tr. III at 137. As a jury instruction was given
appropriately placing the burden of proof on the State, counsel not asking for further
limiting instructions to reiterate the burden of proof does not fall below an objective
standard of reasonable representation.
c. Failure to withdraw as counsel
{¶78} OH ST RPC Rule 1.16 states:
(a) Subject to divisions (c), (d), and (e) of this rule, a lawyer shall not
represent a client or, where representation has commenced, shall withdraw
from the representation of a client if any of the following applies:
(1) the representation will result in violation of the Ohio Rules of
Professional Conduct or other law;
(2) the lawyer’s physical or mental condition materially impairs the
lawyer’s ability to represent the client;
(3) the lawyer is discharged.
{¶79} In Appellant’s Seventh Assignment of Error, Appellant does not allege
Appellant’s trial attorney violated OH ST RPC 1.16(a), but that Appellant’s trial counsel
should have withdrawn from representation because of perceived animosity on behalf of
the trial court toward Appellant’s trial counsel. Before the trial started, Appellant’s trial
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 19
counsel asks the trial court if it harbors any animosity towards counsel. The trial court
states, “I have no animosity for you. I think you’re a very thorough lawyer.”
{¶80} As Appellant’s trial counsel did not meet the criteria set forth under OH ST
RPC Rule 1.16(a), he was not required to withdraw as counsel. Therefore, the decision
not to withdraw representation would be within the counsel’s wide range of trial tactics
and strategies and not ineffective assistance of counsel. Therefore, Appellant’s argument
is unpersuasive and does not show counsel’s performance fell below an objective
standard of reasonable representation.
{¶81} Appellant’s Fifth and Seventh Assignments of Error are overruled.
VI.
{¶82} In Appellant’s Sixth Assignment of Error, Appellant argues the trial judge’s
repeated comments on trial counsel’s performance unduly influenced the jury and
indicated a lack of impartiality. We disagree.
{¶83} During a jury trial, the comments and manner of the trial court may have a
strong impact on the jury. State v. James, 5th Dist. Stark No. 2016CA00144, 2017-Ohio-
7861, ¶34. If the trial court’s comments rise to the level of prejudicing the jury, the
defendant is denied a fair trial. Id. The conduct of the trial court may affect the impartiality
of the jury. Id. The Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United
States Constitution requires that a criminal defendant should be tried before a panel of
fair and impartial jurors.
{¶84} R.C. 2945.03 describes the trial court’s control of a trial, “[t]he judge of the
trial court shall control all proceedings during a criminal trial, and shall limit the introduction
of evidence and the argument of counsel to relevant and material matters with a view to
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 20
expeditious and effective ascertainment of the truth regarding the matters in issue.” Ohio
Evid.R. 611(A) provides that “[t]he court shall exercise reasonable control over the mode
and order of interrogating witnesses and presenting evidence so as to (1) make the
interrogation and presentation effective for the ascertainment of the truth, (2) avoid
needless consumption of time, and (3) protect witnesses from harassment or undue
embarrassment.”
{¶85} In exercising the duty to control a criminal trial, the judge is to remain
impartial and refrain from making comments which may influence a jury. State v. Boyd,
63 Ohio App.3d 790, 580 N.E.2d 443 (8th Dist. 1989). “[T]he judge must be cognizant of
the effect of his comments upon the jury[.]” State v. Wade, 53 Ohio St.2d 182, 187, 373
N.E.2d 1244 (1978), vacated and remanded on other grounds. “[T]he Court’s participation
by questioning or comment must be scrupulously limited, lest the court, consciously or
unconsciously, indicate to the jury its opinion on the evidence or on the credibility of a
witness.” State ex rel. Wise v. Chand, 21 Ohio St.2d 113, 256 N.E.2d 613 (1970), at
paragraph three of the syllabus.
{¶86} In determining whether a trial judge’s remarks were prejudicial, the burden
of proof is placed upon the defendant to demonstrate prejudice. State v. Petrone, 5th Dist.
Stark No. 2011CA00067, 2012-Ohio-911, ¶40, appeal not allowed, 132 Ohio St.3d 1463,
2012-Ohio-3054, 969 N.E.2d 1231, citing Wade, supra, 53 Ohio St.2d at 188. It is
presumed that the trial judge is in the best position to decide when a breach is committed
and what corrective measures are called for. Id. The remarks must be considered in light
of the circumstances under which they are made, consideration must be given to their
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 21
possible effect on the jury, and consideration must be given to their possible impairment
of the effectiveness of counsel. Id.
{¶87} An appellate court reviewing a trial court’s comments must determine
whether the trial court abused its discretion. State v. Davis, 79 Ohio App.3d 450, 454, 607
N.E.2d 543 (4th Dist. 1992). However, a failure to object has been held to constitute a
waiver of the error and to preclude its consideration upon appeal, for, absent an objection,
the trial court is denied an opportunity to give corrective instructions as to the error. State
v. Williams (1974), 39 Ohio St.2d 20, 313 N.E.2d 859; State v. Childs (1968), 14 Ohio
St.2d 56, 236 N.E.2d 545; Smith v. Flesher (1967), 12 Ohio St.2d 107, 233 N.E.2d 137.
See, also, United States v. Gaines (C.A.3, 1971), 450 F.2d 186, certiorari denied, 405
U.S. 927, 92 S.Ct. 978, 30 L.Ed.2d 801; United States v. Bessesen (C.A.8, 1970) 433
F.2d 861, certiorari denied, 401 U.S. 1009, 91 S.Ct. 1254, 28 L.Ed.2d 545. To constitute
plain error, it must appear from the record that an error occurred and that except for that
error the outcome of the trial would have been different. Hamilton v. Clemans, 121 Ohio
App.3d 337, 339, 700 N.E.2d 33 (12th Dist. 1997), citing State v. Long, 53 Ohio St.2d 91,
97, 372 N.E.2d 804 (1978).
{¶88} The following interactions pointed out by Appellant occurred either at side
bar outside the hearing of the jury, or after the jury had been excused.
{¶89} During opening statements, the trial judge told Appellant’s counsel, “[y]ou’re
playing a game, and I’m not putting up with this at trial.” Tr. I.II at 19-20. This interaction
took place at side bar, outside the hearing of the jury. The judge then had the improper
argument stricken in front of the jury. Appellant’s counsel did not object to this ruling.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 22
{¶90} The next interaction Appellant claimed prejudiced the jury occurred when
the State objected during Appellant counsel’s opening argument stating again he was
using closing arguments. After discussing the appropriateness of the statements at side
bar, out of the hearing of the jury, the judge sustained the objection. Appellant’s counsel
did not object to the court’s comments.
{¶91} During cross-examination of the first witness, the State made a series of
objections based on relevance. The trial court judge sustained the objections ruling the
questions were irrelevant and asking Appellant’s counsel to move on. Any discussion of
the rulings took place during a side bar, outside the hearing of the jury. Appellant’s
counsel did not bring an objection on the trial court prejudicing the jury.
{¶92} At a side bar, out of the hearing of the jury, the trial court judge asked
Appellant’s counsel to lower his voice, and mentioned it was the sixth time that day. The
trial court judge then told Appellant’s counsel that we are done with the side bar and to
go sit down. He then ended the side bar. No objection was raised by Appellant’s counsel.
{¶93} After the jury had been excused, the trial court judge asked Appellant’s
counsel to calm down as, “the Court of Appeals can’t see you’re getting very challenging
with me and being a little bit of a bully, and I don’t want to see that in this court.” Tr. II at
247. After Appellant’s counsel continued to argue that he was not being allowed to proffer
a reason for the record, the trial judge responded, “I did allow you to proffer it. You just
want to keep going and antagonize me.” Id.{¶94} We do not find these instances could have been misunderstood by the jury
to prejudice Appellant’s right to a fair trial as the jury never heard any of these interactions.
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 23
{¶95} Appellant set forth further interactions which did occur within the presence
of the jury.
{¶96} During opening arguments, Appellant’s counsel referenced Newman as an
unindicted codefendant. The trial judge interjected stating, “[t]hat is not pertinent to this
case. And we will order that stricken.” Tr. I.II at 10. Appellant’s counsel did not object to
this ruling.
{¶97} Next, the judge interrupted Appellant’s counsel stating, “[y]ou are getting
into a closing argument.” Tr. I.II at 21. The court then asked Appellant’s counsel to stick
to opening statements. Appellant’s counsel did not object to this ruling.
{¶98} During re-cross examination of Nduati, the trial court judge sustained an
objection that the witness has already answered Appellant counsel’s questions.
Appellant’s counsel then argued the point that he could ask them again. The trial court
judge then stated, “believe it or not, I got elected judge and I get to make the decisions.”
Tr. II at 176. Appellant counsel did not object to the judge’s comments.
{¶99} In addition, the trial court judge on numerous occasions told trial counsel
“we get it” or asked trial counsel to “simplify” a question. Appellant does not show any
objections to these comments by the trial court judge.
{¶100} An improper conversation occurred between an alternate juror and a juror,
where a juror expressed dislike for Appellant’s trial counsel. The juror also indicated it
would not affect his ability to judge the case fairly. Appellant’s trial counsel wished to
question the juror on what he disliked about defense counsel, the trial court judge decided
to hold off on the questioning, and to revisit at a later time. The trial court judge removed
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 24
Juror 65. When asked for any objections on removing the juror, or the process, neither
attorney objected.
{¶101} Our review of the trial court’s statements reveals that they are limited to
keeping witnesses and counsel on track with relevant issues in the case, preventing the
mischaracterization of witness’s testimony, and asking for counsel to clarify complex
questions. Taken in context, we are not persuaded that the outcome of the trial clearly
would have gone the other way but for the alleged error. Under these circumstances we
find that no plain error was committed.
{¶102} Appellant’s Sixth Assignment of Error is overruled.
VIII.
{¶103} In Appellant’s Eighth Assignment of Error, Appellant argues the trial court
violated Appellant’s rights against cruel and unusual punishment by sentencing Appellant
to the maximum sentence allowable by statute. We disagree.
{¶104} The Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution prohibits
“[e]xcessive” sanctions. It provides: “Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive
fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.”
{¶105} In State v. Pore, 5th Dist. Stark No. 2013CA00119, 2014-Ohio-790, ¶13, we
stated:
The Eighth Amendment does not require strict proportionality
between crime and sentence. Rather, it forbids extreme sentences that are
grossly disproportionate to the crime. State v. Weitbrecht, 86 Ohio St.3d 368,
373, 715 N.E.2d 167 (1999), quoting Harmelin v. Michigan, 501 U.S. 957,
1001, 111 S.Ct. 2680 (1991), (Kennedy, J., concurring in part and in
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 25
judgment). In Solem v. Helm, 463 U.S. 277, 290-292, 103 S.Ct. 3001, 3010-
3011, 77 L.E.2d 637, 649-50 (1983), the United States Supreme Court set
forth a three-part test for determining whether a sentence is disproportionate
to the crime: (i) the gravity of the offense and the harshness of the penalty;
(ii) the sentences imposed on other criminals in the same jurisdiction; and
(iii) the sentences imposed for commission of the same crime in other
jurisdictions. A sentence does not violate the constitutional prohibition
against cruel and unusual punishment unless the sentence is so grossly
disproportionate to the offense as to shock the sense of justice in the
community. State v. Chaffin, 30 Ohio St.2d 13, 59 O.O.2d 51, 282 N.E.2d 46(1972).
{¶106} Appellant argues the maximum sentence allowed by law, sixty months, for
the offense of gross sexual imposition constitutes cruel and unusual punishment.
Appellant does not challenge sentencing is out of line with other sentences from this or
other jurisdictions, nor does she argue she was not sentenced within a range permitted
by statute. Appellant’s challenge is that the sentencing court made a series of
inflammatory comments during sentencing and such comments were not appropriately
applying the R.C. 2929.12 sentencing factors.
{¶107} In the instant case, on the record at the sentencing hearing, the trial court
noted it considered the purposes and principles of sentencing contained in R.C. 2929.11
through R.C. 2929.17 including the seriousness of the offense and recidivism factors. The
prison term of sixty months is within the statutory range for the offense and is in
accordance with law. R.C. 2907.05(C)(3); R.C. 2929.14. Any inflammatory language used
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 26
at sentencing was the trial judge explaining its reasons for imposing the maximum
sentence. We find the sentence of the trial court is supported by the record and does not
violate the constitutional prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.
{¶108} Appellant’s Eighth Assignment of Error is overruled.
IX.
{¶109} In Appellant’s Ninth Assignment of Error, Appellant argues the jury’s guilty
verdict was against the manifest weight of the evidence. We disagree.
{¶110} When reviewing a weight of the evidence argument, the appellate court
reviews the entire record, weighs the evidence and all reasonable inferences, considers
the credibility of witnesses and determines whether in resolving conflicts of evidence, the
jury 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. Martin, 20 Ohio App.3d 172,
175, 485 N.E.2d 717, 720-721 (1983).
{¶111} The jury convicted Appellant on one count of Gross Sexual Imposition in
violation of R.C. 2907.05(B) and Endangering Children in violation of R.C. 2919.22(B)(2).
{¶112} R.C. 2907.05(B) states:
No person shall knowingly touch the genitalia of another, when
touching is not through clothing, the other person is less than twelve years
of age, whether or not the offender knows the age of the person, and the
touching is done with an intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or
arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person.
{¶113} R.C. 2919.22(B) states:
Stark County, Case No. 2020 CA 00066 27
No person shall do any of the following to a child under eighteen
years of age or a mentally or physically handicapped child under twenty-one
years of age:
***
(2) Torture or cruelly abuse the child;
{¶114} At trial, the State produced evidence that Appellant, CS’s mother, held down
the legs of CS, who was under eighteen years of age, while Newman put peanut butter
on CS’s genitalia. Testimony showed while Appellant was holding down CS, both the dog
and Newman licked the peanut butter off CS’s genitalia. Our review of the entire record
fails to persuade us that the jury lost its way and created a manifest miscarriage of justice.
Appellant was not convicted against the manifest weight of the evidence.
{¶115} Appellant’s Ninth Assignment of Error is overruled.
{¶116} For the foregoing reasons, the judgment of the Court of Common Pleas of
Stark County, Ohio, is hereby affirmed.
By: Wise, J.
Baldwin, P. J., and
Hoffman, J., concur.
JWW/br 0222