Com. v. Rugg, P.

J-S01011-15
NON-PRECEDENTIAL DECISION - SEE SUPERIOR COURT I.O.P. 65.37
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, : IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF
: PENNSYLVANIA
Appellee :
:
v. :
:
PATRICK LEROY RUGG, :
:
Appellant : No. 458 WDA 2014
Appeal from the Judgment of Sentence entered on July 30, 2013
in the Court of Common Pleas of Cambria County,
Criminal Division, No. CP-11-CR-0001342-2010
BEFORE: GANTMAN, P.J., JENKINS and MUSMANNO, JJ.
MEMORANDUM BY MUSMANNO, J.: FILED FEBRUARY 19, 2015
Patrick Leroy Rugg (“Rugg”) appeals from the judgment of sentence
imposed after a jury convicted him of four counts of involuntary deviate
sexual intercourse with a child (“IDSI”), and one count each of trafficking of
persons, indecent assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and corruption
of minors.1 We affirm the convictions, vacate the judgment of sentence, and
remand for resentencing.
1
See 18 Pa.C.S.A. §§ 3123(b), 3002(a), 3126(a)(7), 4304(a)(1),
6301(a)(1). Regarding Rugg’s conviction of trafficking of persons in June
2012, effective on September 2, 2014, the former Chapter of the Crimes
Code concerning this offense was repealed and replaced with a new Chapter.
See id. § 3001 et seq.; see also id. § 3011(b) (codifying the new offense of
trafficking in minors).
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The trial court has set forth the relevant history underlying this appeal
in its Pa.R.A.P. 1925(a) Opinion, which we incorporate herein by reference.
See Trial Court Opinion, 5/20/14, at 1-2.2
On appeal, Rugg presents the following issues for our review:
1. Whether the trial court abused its discretion by
conducting the competency hearing of the child
victim-witness in the presence of the jury[,] and by
summarily precluding the production of evidence to
expand such competency hearing to investigate taint?
2. Whether the trial court abused its discretion in
denying [Rugg’s] Motion for a new trial based on the
weight of the evidence inasmuch as the trial court
deprived [Rugg] of full and effective cross-
examination of the victim[,] whose evidence had been
shaped?
3. Whether the trial court erred by denying [Rugg’s
Motion for] judgment of acquittal on the count … of
trafficking of persons inasmuch as the evidence did
not suffice to prove all of the elements of the offense?
4. Whether the trial court erred by the “sexually violent
predator” [hereinafter “SVP”] determination inasmuch
as the evidence presented by the Commonwealth did
not suffice to prove all of the elements of [SVP] status
by clear and convincing evidence?
5. Whether the sentencing court erred by imposing 10-
year mandatory minimum terms[,] pursuant to 42
Pa.C.S. § 9718(a)(1)[,] for every conviction of [IDSI,]
in contravention of the constitutionally-protected right
to a jury trial and due process, resulting in an illegal
sentence?
2
Following the trial court’s reinstatement of Rugg’s appeal rights, nunc pro
tunc, on March 11, 2014, Rugg timely filed his Notice of Appeal.
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6. Whether the sentencing court abused its discretion in
imposing sentence by running all of the terms for
[IDSI] consecutively, resulting in a non-individualized,
de facto life sentence[,] contrary to the Sentencing
Code?
Brief for Appellant at 10-11 (emphasis and capitalization omitted, issues re-
numbered for ease of disposition).
Rugg first argues that the trial court erred and deprived him of a fair
trial by conducting the competency hearing of “the thirteen-year-old victim
… in the jury’s presence[,3] and [by] preclud[ing] [] Rugg from meeting the
threshold to expand the competency hearing to investigate taint[,]” i.e.,
whether the victim’s testimony was unduly influenced by third parties who
interviewed the victim during the investigation. Id. at 22 (footnote added).
Rugg points out that the trial court concedes in its Pa.R.A.P. 1925(a) Opinion
that it should have conducted the competency hearing of the minor victim
outside of the presence of the jury. Brief for Appellant at 23; see also Trial
Court Opinion, 5/20/14, at 9; Commonwealth v. Moore, 980 A.2d 647,
653 (Pa. Super. 2009) (holding that because the victim “was only thirteen
years old when she testified at trial[,”] “the trial court should have held a
competency hearing outside of the presence of the jury.”). Rugg further
argues that the trial court erred, and violated the dictates of the
Pennsylvania Supreme Court in Commonwealth v. Delbridge, 855 A.2d 27(Pa. 2003), “by [] ruling[,] prior to the competency hearing[,] that [] Rugg
3
Prior to the victim’s testimony at trial, the trial court asked him questions
pertaining to whether he understood the difference between a truth and a
lie, and his obligation to tell the truth. See N.T., 6/25/12, at 82-83.
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had not presented some evidence of taint to allow an expanded inquiry into
taint ….” Brief for Appellant at 24 (citing Delbridge, 855 A.2d at 40 (stating
that “[d]uring the hearing[,] the party alleging taint bears the burden of
production of evidence of taint and the burden of persuasion to show taint
by clear and convincing evidence.”) (emphasis supplied by Rugg)).
The determination of a witness’s competency rests within
the sound discretion of the trial court. The decision of the trial
court will not be disturbed absent a clear abuse of that
discretion; consequently[,] our standard of review of rulings on
the competency of witnesses is very limited indeed.
In Pennsylvania, the general rule is that every witness is
presumed to be competent to be a witness. However, young
children must be examined for competency pursuant to the
following test: (1) The witness must be capable of expressing
intelligent answers to questions; (2) The witness must have
been capable of observing the event to be testified about and
have the ability to remember it; and, (3) An awareness of the
duty to tell the truth. An allegation of taint centers on the
second element of the above test. Where an allegation of taint
is made before trial[,] the appropriate venue for investigation
into such a claim is a competency hearing. A competency
hearing is centered on the inquiry into the minimal capacity of
the witness to communicate, to observe an event and accurately
recall that observation, and to understand the necessity to speak
the truth.
Commonwealth v. Davis, 939 A.2d 905, 906-07 (Pa. Super. 2007)
(citations, quotation marks and ellipses omitted); see also Delbridge, 855
A.2d at 39-40.
“In order to trigger an investigation of competency on the issue of
taint, the moving party must show some evidence of taint. Once some
evidence of taint is presented, the competency hearing must be expanded to
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explore this specific question.” Delbridge, 855 A.2d at 40. This Court has
explained that
[w]hen determining whether a defendant has presented “some
evidence” of taint, the court must consider the totality of the
circumstances surrounding the child’s allegations. Some of the
factors that courts have deemed relevant in this analysis include
the age of the child, whether the child has been subject to
repeated interviews by adults in positions of authority, and the
existence of independent evidence regarding the interview
techniques utilized.
Moore, 980 A.2d at 652 (citations and some quotation marks omitted).
In its Pa.R.A.P. 1925(a) Opinion, the trial court thoroughly addressed
Rugg’s claim and explained its reasons for determining that it does not
entitle him to relief. See Trial Court Opinion, 5/20/14, at 8-11. The trial
court’s analysis is supported by the law and the record; therefore, we affirm
on this basis with regard to Rugg’s first issue. See id.4
Next, Rugg contends that the trial court abused its discretion by
denying his Motion for a new trial based on the weight of the evidence. See
4
As an addendum, we observe that there is no merit to Rugg’s claim that
the trial court “precluded [him] from meeting the threshold to expand the
competency hearing to investigate taint[.]” Brief for Appellant at 22.
Rather, the trial court found, and the record supports that Rugg had failed to
meet his burden of production under Delbridge to overcome the
presumption of the victim’s competency, so as to trigger an expanded
competency hearing on the issue of taint. See Trial Court Opinion, 5/20/14,
at 10-11; see also Commonwealth v. Cesar, 911 A.2d 978, 985-86 (Pa.
Super. 2006) (holding that the appellant did not present evidence of taint,
as the minor witness continually stated that she remembered the critical
events independently). Additionally, we determine that the trial court’s
minor procedural error in conducting the competency hearing in the
presence of the jury does not constitute reversible error, as there is no
indication that same prejudiced Rugg or deprived him of a fair trial. See
Moore, 980 A.2d at 658.
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Brief for Appellant at 19-22. Specifically, Rugg asserts, he “was deprived of
full and effective cross-examination of the child-victim, [] whose testimony
had been shaped by the police, social workers and other professionals who
interviewed him after [] Rugg’s arrest” (hereinafter collectively referred to as
“the interviewing professionals”). Id. at 19; see also id. at 21-22 (listing
the interviewing professionals who allegedly “shaped” the victim’s
testimony).
Our standard in reviewing a weight of the evidence claim is well-
settled:
Appellate review of a weight claim is a review of the exercise of
discretion, not of the underlying question of whether the verdict
is against the weight of the evidence. Because the trial judge
has had the opportunity to hear and see the evidence presented,
an appellate court will give the gravest consideration to the
findings and reasons advanced by the trial judge when reviewing
a trial court’s determination that the verdict is against the weight
of the evidence. One of the least assailable reasons for granting
or denying a new trial is the lower court’s conviction that the
verdict was or was not against the weight of the evidence and
that a new trial should be granted in the interest of justice.
Commonwealth v. Clay, 64 A.3d 1049, 1055 (Pa. 2013) (emphasis and
citations omitted); see also Commonwealth v. Sanchez, 36 A.3d 24, 27
(Pa. 2011) (stating that “[r]elief on a weight of the evidence claim is
reserved for extraordinary circumstances, when the jury’s verdict is so
contrary to the evidence as to shock one’s sense of justice and the award of
a new trial is imperative so that right may be given another opportunity to
prevail.” (citation omitted)).
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Initially, as addressed above concerning Rugg’s first issue, Rugg failed
to demonstrate that the victim’s testimony was unduly tainted by the
interviewing professionals. Further, Rugg’s defense counsel did, in fact,
cross-examine the victim concerning matters that allegedly showed that the
interviewing professionals had “shaped” the victim’s testimony, including,
inter alia, (a) the victim’s use of the word “defendant” when referring to
Rugg; (b) the victim’s psychological and behavioral issues; (c) the victim’s
truthfulness; and (d) the discussion between the victim and the prosecutor
prior to trial. See N.T., 6/25/12, at 104-09, 114, 117.
In connection with his weight claim, Rugg also challenges the trial
court’s pretrial ruling that the defense was precluded from discovery of the
following information because it was privileged: (1) the Assistant District
Attorney’s interview notes prepared while speaking with one of the
interviewing professionals; and (2) the victim’s medical/psychiatric records.
See Brief for Appellant at 20-21. This distinct claim is not a challenge to the
weight of the evidence, and Rugg has waived it by failing to preserve it in his
Rule 1925(b) Concise Statement. See Commonwealth v. Lord, 719 A.2d
306, 309 (Pa. 1998) (holding that “[a]ny issues not raised in a 1925(b)
statement will be deemed waived.”); see also Pa.R.A.P. 1925(b)(4)(vii)
(providing that “[i]ssues not included in the Statement … are waived.”).
Based upon the foregoing, the jury’s verdict is not so contrary to the
evidence as to shock our sense of justice, and we discern no abuse of
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discretion by the trial court in rejecting Rugg’s challenge to the weight of the
evidence.
In his third issue, Rugg asserts that the trial court erred by failing to
grant his Motion for judgment of acquittal on the charge of trafficking of
persons because the evidence did not establish that he “did traffic or
knowingly attempt to traffic another person (as the term ‘traffics’ is defined
by [former Crimes Code section] 3001)[,] and that he knew that the other
person would be subjected to forced labor or services (as the term ‘forced
labor or services’ is defined by [former section] 3001).” Brief for Appellant
at 25. Rugg points out that the victim testified that he was “uncomfortable”
and scared” during Rugg’s repeated sexual assaults. Id. at 26 (quoting
N.T., 6/25/14, at 96, 99). According to Rugg, “[f]eelings of discomfort and
fear do not … suffice to prove subjection to forced labor or services for
purposes of a conviction of 18 Pa.C.S. § 3002(a).” Brief for Appellant at 26.
In its Pa.R.A.P. 1925(a) Opinion, the trial court set forth the standard
of review and statutory provisions, and determined that the Commonwealth
had established all of the elements of trafficking of persons beyond a
reasonable doubt. See Trial Court Opinion, 5/20/14, at 5-7. We affirm
based on the trial court’s sound rationale with regard to this issue. See id.
Next, Rugg argues that the trial court erred in determining that he is
an SVP, since the Commonwealth had failed to present sufficient evidence to
support this designation. See Brief for Appellant at 27-33.
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In reviewing a claim that the evidence was insufficient to support an
SVP designation, we utilize the following standard of review:
A challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence is a question
of law requiring a plenary scope of review. The appropriate
standard of review regarding the sufficiency of the evidence is
whether the evidence admitted at trial and all reasonable
inferences drawn therefrom, when viewed in the light most
favorable to the Commonwealth as the verdict winner, is
sufficient to support all the elements of the offenses. As a
reviewing court, we may not weigh the evidence and substitute
our judgment for that of the fact-finder. Furthermore, a fact-
finder is free to believe all, part or none of the evidence
presented.
At the [SVP] hearing[,] … the court shall determine
whether the Commonwealth has proved by clear and convincing
evidence that the individual is a [SVP]. Accordingly, in reviewing
the sufficiency of the evidence regarding the determination of
SVP status, we will reverse the trial court only if the
Commonwealth has not presented clear and convincing evidence
sufficient to enable the trial court to determine that each
element required by the statute has been satisfied.
Commonwealth v. Brooks, 7 A.3d 852, 860 (Pa. Super. 2010) (citation
omitted).
Rugg argues as follows:
Paramount among the indicia of clear and convincing
evidence[, to support an SVP classification,] is that it be direct.
See Commonwealth v. Plucinski, 868 A.2d 20, 25 (Pa. Super.
2005) [(overruled on other grounds by Commonwealth v.
Morgan, 16 A.3d 1165, 1173 (Pa. Super. 2011)).]
Distinguishing the expert testimony of [the defense’s witness,]
Scott J. Scotilla, Ph.D. [“Dr. Scotilla”], the psychologist who
examined [] Rugg and testified for him at the SVP determination
hearing, from that of [the Sexual Offender Assessment Board
(“SOAB”) member who evaluated Rugg, Herbert E. Hays
(“Hays”)], is that Dr. Scotilla employed recognized, objective
psychological testing, such as the [Minnesota Multiphasic
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Personality Inventory (“MMPI”)5], in rendering his conclusions[,]
which would qualify as direct. In contrast, [] Hays relied on the
conviction[s], which, because [Hays] was not present [at trial]
and had no transcripts, was the opposite of direct.
The SVP court’s determination that [] Rugg was an SVP
was not supported by clear and convincing evidence. [] Hays …
offered only conclusions based on the conviction[s], not the
examination, of [] Rugg[,] while … Dr. Scotilla offered an expert
opinion based on testing and examination.
Brief for Appellant at 32-33 (footnote added, some citations omitted).
The trial court issued a separate Opinion on the matter of Rugg’s SVP
classification, thoroughly set forth the applicable law, and determined that
the evidence, including Hays’s testimony and assessment, established that
Rugg met the requirements of an SVP. See Trial Court Opinion, 6/21/13, at
7-11. Our review confirms that the trial court’s rationale is supported by the
record and the law. We additionally observe that the trial court stated as
follows in a separate part of its Opinion concerning his challenge to Hays’s
SVP assessment:
[Rugg] cites no case law or statutory authority for the
assertion that a [SOAB] member performing an SVP assessment
is required to rely on transcripts. The SVP assessment at bar
sets forth that [] Hays relied on, inter alia, an interview with
[Rugg], Pennsylvania Childline Records, the [criminal]
information, the verdicts, the affidavit of probable cause, the
incident investigation report, and a transcript of witness
testimony. Accordingly, the [trial c]ourt finds that [] Hays relied
on sufficient facts and data … in preparing his SVP assessment.
… [Regarding Rugg’s] claim that [Hays’s] SVP assessment
was improper because [Rugg] was determined to be an [SVP]
based solely on his conviction of a crime fitting the definition of
5
The MMPI is the most widely used standardized psychometric test of adult
personality and psychopathology.
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pedophilia[,] … th[e trial c]ourt determined that the SVP
assessment was supported by sufficient foundation. … []
Hays’[s] SVP assessment clearly considers the fourteen factors
outlined by the [Megan’s Law] statute. 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9795.4(b)
(current version 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9799.24(b)).
Id. at 4-5 (citations to record omitted). Because we determine that the trial
court’s rationale is sound, and the court properly found that the
Commonwealth had proved by clear and convincing evidence that Rugg
meets the requirements of an SVP, we affirm on this basis. See id. at 4-5,
7-11.
In his fifth issue, Rugg argues that the sentencing court imposed an
illegal sentence when it sentenced him to a mandatory minimum prison term
of ten years, pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9718(a)(1),6 on each of his four
IDSI convictions. See Brief for Appellant at 34-35. Specifically, Rugg
argues as follows:
The application of section 9718(a)(1)’s 10-year mandatory
minimum term to each of [Rugg’s IDSI convictions] … implicated
Alleyne v. United States, 133 S. Ct. 2151 ([] 2013), requiring
submission of the fact triggering a mandate[, i.e., in the instant
case, whether the victim was under 16 years of age,] to the jury
as an element of “a new, aggravated crime[.]” Id. at 2161. …
Because [] Rugg’s sentence imposed a mandatory minimum
term as a sentencing factor[,] rather than as an element of the
crime proved to the jury beyond a reasonable doubt, such
sentence was illegal, as set forth in Alleyne.
6
Section 9718(a)(1) provides, in relevant part, as follows: “(1) A person
convicted of the following offenses when the victim is less than 16 years of
age shall be sentenced to a mandatory term of imprisonment as follows: …
18 Pa.C.S. 3123 (relating to involuntary deviate sexual intercourse) -- not
less than ten years.” 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9718(a)(1).
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Brief for Appellant at 34-35 (ellipses, capitalization and paragraph break
omitted). Upon review of recent case law, we must agree that the
sentencing court imposed an illegal sentence.
In Commonwealth v. Wolfe, 2014 PA Super 288 (Pa. Super. 2014),
a panel of this Court held that the same IDSI statutory subsection under
which Rugg was sentenced, 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9718(a)(1), is unconstitutional
under Alleyne and its progeny. Wolfe, 2014 PA Super 288 at **12, 16
(collecting cases and holding that although “the additional fact triggering the
mandatory sentence[, i.e., the victim being less than 16 years of age,] is
also contained as an element within [] subsection [3123(b),] the IDSI
statute under which Appellant was convicted[,]” the panel was bound to
conclude that subsection 9718(a)(1) is void based on the prior decision of
the en banc Court in Commonwealth v. Newman, 2014 PA Super 178 (Pa.
Super. 2014), and observing that “Newman stands for the proposition that
mandatory minimum sentence statutes in Pennsylvania of this format are
void in their entirety.”). Accordingly, we must vacate Rugg’s illegal
judgment of sentence and remand for resentencing.
Concerning Rugg’s final issue, wherein he raises a challenge to the
discretionary aspects of his sentence, we will not address this issue, since
we are remanding for resentencing.
Convictions affirmed. Judgment of sentence vacated. Case remanded
for resentencing consistent with this Memorandum. Superior Court
jurisdiction relinquished.
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Judgment Entered.
Joseph D. Seletyn, Esq.
Prothonotary
Date: 2/19/2015
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
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APPEARANCES:
For the Commonwealth: TAMARA R. BERNSTEIN, ESQUIRE
Assistant District Attorney
For the Defendant: THOMAS W. DICKEY, ESQUIRE
**************
STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF ORDERS PURSUANT TO
PENNSYLVANIA RULE OF APPELLATE PROCEDURE 1925(a)
FLEMING, J., May 19, 2014. Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Appellate Procedure
1925(a), the trial court submits the following Statement in Support of Orders dated June 25,
2012; June 21, 2013; and December 27,2013.
BACKGROUND
The Commonwealth charged Defendant Patrick L. Rugg with the following eight counts
by Amended Information dated June 20, 2012: (1) through (4) Involuntary Deviate Sexual
Intercourse with a Child under the age of 13, a felony of the first degree (18 PA.C.S.A. §
3123(b)); (5) Trafficking of Persons, a felony of the first degree (18 PA.C.S.A. § 3002(a)); (6)
Indecent Assault, a felony of the third degree (18 PA.C.S.A. § 3126(a)(7)); (7) Endangering the
Welfare of a Child, a felony of the third degree (18 PA.C.S.A. § 4304(a)(1)); and (8) Corruption
of Minors, a misdemeanor of the first degree (18 PA.C.S.A. § 6301 (a)(1)). This Court
conducted a jury trial from June 25 to June 27, 2012. At trial, the Commonwealth presented
testimony from numerous witnesses, including an eyewitness and the minor victim, Z.B. N.T.
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(
(June 25, 2012), pp. 43-75 (testimony of the eyewitness); pp. 85-121 (testimony of Z.B.). The
jury unanimously found Defendant guilty of all eight counts. See N.T. (June 27, 2012), pp.
231-234.
Defendant's convictions on four counts of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with
a Child triggered obligations under Pennsylvania's Megan's Law Statute. 42 Pa.C.S.A. §§
9799.10, et. seq. On February 26, 2013, the Court conducted a Hearing pursuant to Section
9799.24(e) to determine if Defendant met the definition of a sexually violent predator as set
forth in Section 9799.12. By Order dated June 21, 2013, the Court found the Commonwealth
met its burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that Defendant is a sexually violent
predator. ORDER DATED JUNE 21, 2013, ~ 3. On July 30,2013, the Court sentenced Defendant
as follows: Counts One through Four (Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child),
consecutive sentences of ten to twenty years imprisonment; Count Five (Trafficking of
Persons), twenty-four to forty-eight months imprisonment, concurrent to Count One; Count Six
(Indecent Assault), twelve to twenty-four months imprisonment, concurrent to Count One;
Count Seven, (Endangering the Welfare of a Child), twelve to twenty-four months
imprisonment, concurrent to Count One; and Count Eight (Corruption of Minors), six to twelve
months imprisonment, concurrent to Count One. SENTENCE DATED JULY 30, 2013.
Defendant filed an Optional Post-Sentence Motion on August 9, 2013. The Court
entertained oral argument on August 27, 2013 and requested the parties to submit briefs. The
Court denied Defendant's Motion by Order dated December 27,2013. ORDER DATED DEC. 27,
2013, ~~ 1-6. ON MARCH 19,2014, Defendant filed a Notice of Appeal. On April W, 2014,
Defendant timely filed a Concise Statement Pursuant to Pa.R.A.P. 1925(b), setting forth eight
purported errors. CONCISE STATEMENT, ~~ 1-8.
Purported Error No.1
(O~15e<':'t-tfl'IIC
Defendant argues the imposition of.6@H-Oanem sentences on Counts One through Four
(Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child) was excessive and an abuse of
discretion. CONCISE STATEMENT, ~ 1. To this end, Defendant argues the sentence amounted to
life imprisonment; the sentence was not an individualized sentence; and the sentence was
2
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inconsistent with protection of the public, the gravity of the offenses as it relates to impact on
the life of the victim and on the community, and Defendant's rehabilitative needs. Id.
When a defendant challenges discretionary aspects of a court's sentence, the following
standard of review applies:
Sentencing is a matter vested in the sound discretion of the sentencing judge, and
a sentence will not be disturbed on appeal absent a manifest abuse of discretion.
In this context, an abuse of discretion is not shown merely by an error in
judgment. Rather, the appellant must establish, by reference to the record, that the
sentencing court ignored or misapplied the law, exercised its judgment for reasons
of partiality, prejudice, bias or ill will, or arrived at a manifestly unreasonable
decision.
Commw. v. Fullin, 892 A.2d 843, 847 (Pa. Super. 2006) (internal citations omitted). When
imposing a sentence, the trial court must consider, inter alia, "the protection of the public, the
gravity of the offense as it relates to the impact on the life of the victim and on the community,
and the rehabilitative needs of the defendant." 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9721(b) ["Sentencing Code"].
In the case at bar, the trial court was persuaded by the heinous nature of the crimes,
Z.B.'s age during the period of victimization, Defendant's lack of remorse, and Defendant's
refusal to acknowledge that the events occurred. N.T. (July 30,2013), pp. 16-17. Specifically,
this Court noted that rehabilitation was unlikely because Defendant did not acknowledge his
affliction; did not accept responsibility for his actions; and suffers from pedophilia, a lifelong
condition. Id. at p. 17. Regarding the impact on the victim, Z.B.' s mother testified as follows:
Ever since that day we received a phone call for Ebensburg CYS, our lives have
been turned upside down. [Z.B.] was only ten years old when [Defendant] took
away his youth and forced [Z.B.] to deal with adult issues. Since then, [Z.B.] has
been institutionalized three times in various psyche [sic] wards. He's also been
placed in a youth home for boys for 28 days. [Z.B.] had several behavioral
problems to the point of being placed in Children's Adolescent Partial Hospital
for two years instead of regular school. [Z.B.] is finally back on track. He's back
in regular school, he's doing well, but he still struggles with everyday activities
and he still has trust issues that he has been placed in emotional learning support
classes when he is in school. This has not only affected [Z.B.], it affected all of
us and my family as well.
Id. at p. 12. This Court carefully considered the factors set forth in Section 9721 (b) of the
Sentencing Code. Thus, Defendant's first purported error must be denied.
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.'
Next, this Court addresses Defendant's argument that the sentence is excessive because
it results in a de facto "lifetime sentence." CONCISE STATEMENT, ~ 1. Defendant cites the
Superior Court decision of Commw. v. Coulverson, 34 A.3d 135, 141 (Pa. Super. 2011), for the
principle that a sentence in the standard range may nonetheless be excessive if it is unlikely to
end during the defendant's natural life span. DEFENDANT'S BRIEF ON POST-SENTENCE
MOTIONS, p. 3. The defendant in Coulverson cited a multitude of factors the trial court did not
consider, such as "the troubled circumstances of his background, his homelessness and
destitution, the absence of a prior record score or any record of delinquency, and his remorse
and cooperation with the police." 34 A.2d at 143.
Unlike the defendant in Coulverson, Defendant in the instant matter does not allege
specific facts in support of his assertion that the Court failed to consider the factors set forth in
Section 9721(b) of the Sentencing Code. CONCISE STATEMENT, ~ 1. On the contrary, the facts in
COli) !je~"h'vc:...
the case at bar support the Court's imposition of.concummt sentences on Counts One through
Four for the reasons set forth above. See DISCUSSION OF PURPORTED ERROR No.1, supra, at pp.
3-4.
Purported Error No.2
Next, Defendant argues the Commonwealth failed to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt,
the elements necessary for imposing a ten year mandatory minimum sentence on the convictions
for Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child. CONCISE STATEMENT, ~ 2.
Section 9718(a)(1) of the Sentencing Code imposes a ten year minimum term of
imprisonment, intet alia, where the victim of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse is under
the age of 16. 42 PA.C.S.A. § 9718(a)(1). Defendant asserts that, pursuant to the United States
Supreme Court decision in Alleyne v. United States, 133 S.Ct. 2151 (2013), the victim's age was
an element that should have been submitted to the jury. DEFENDANT'S BRIEF ON POST-
SENTENCE MOTIONS, pps. 2-4.
The defendant in Alleyne was convicted of using or carrying a firearm in relation to a
crime of violence, which carried a mandatory minimum sentence if the defendant "brandished"
the firearm during commission of the offense. 133 S.Ct. 2151, 2155 (2013). The jury found the
4
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\
defendant guilty but did not indicate on the verdict slip that the firearm had been "brandished"
during the offense. Id at 2156. The sentencing judge applied the mandatory minimum
sentence. Id The Supreme Court vacated and remanded the sentence, reasoning as follows:
Because the fact of brandishing aggravates the legally prescribed range of
allowable sentences, it constitutes an element of a separate, aggravated offense
that must be found by the jury, regardless of what sentence the defendant might
have received had a different range been applicable.
Alleyne v. Us., 133 S.Ct. 2151, 2153 (2013).
In the case at bar, Defendant was charged with four counts of Involuntary Deviate
Sexual Intercourse with a Child, which were alleged to have occurred between April 1, 2009
and June 10,2010. AMENDED INFORMATION FILED FOR RECORD ON JUNE 20, 2012. "A person
commits involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child, a felony of the first degree, when
the person engages in deviate sexual intercourse with a complainant who is less than 13 years of
age." 18 PA.C.S.A. § 3123(b). Z.B.'s age at the time of the crime was a specific element of the
offense. Id. Z.B. testified that his date of birth is September 11, 1998. N.T. (June 25, 2012), p.
85. Thus, Z.B.'s age on April 1,2009 was approximately 10Y2, and his age on June 10,2010,
was less than 12. The jury was instructed they must find Z.B. to be under the age of 13 at the
time of the offenses to find Defendant guilty. N.T. (June 27,2012), pp. 217-218. The jury
found Defendant guilty of four counts of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child.
N.T. (June 27,2012) pp. 217-218.
By convicting Defendant of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child, the
jury found the victim to be under the age of 13. This necessarily means the child is also under
the age of 16, the requirement for imposition of a mandatory minimum sentence pursuant to
Section 9718(a)(1). 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 9718(a)(1). The "fact" which Defendant argues constitutes
an "element" necessary for imposing the mandatory minimum, i. e., the victim is under the age
of 16, was determined by the jury. For these reasons, Defendant's second error must fail.
Purported Error No.3
Next, Defendant argues the Commonwealth's evidence was insufficient to prove the
following elements of Count Five, Trafficking of Persons: (1) that Defendant "did traffic or
5
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knowingly attempt to traffic another person;" and (2) that Defendant "knew that the other
person would be subjected to forced labor or services." CONCISE STATEMENT, ,-r 3.
The Superior Court outlined the following standard for reviewing a challenge to the
sufficiency of evidence:
In reviewing the sufficiency of the evidence, we view all the evidence admitted at
trial in the light most favorable to the Commonwealth, as verdict winner, to see
whether there is sufficient evidence to enable [the factfinder] to find every
element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. This standard is equally
applicable to cases where the evidence is circumstantial rather than direct so long
as the combination of the evidence links the accused to the crime beyond a
reasonable doubt. Although a conviction must be based on "more than mere
suspicion or conjecture:' the Commonwealth need not establish guilt to a
mathematical certainty.
Commw. v. McFadden, 850 A.2d 1290, 1293 (Pa. Super. 2004) (internal citations and
quotations omitted).
Purusant to the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, "a person commits an offense [of
Trafficking of Persons] if the person knowingly traffics or knowingly attempts to traffic
another person, knowing that the other person will be subjected to forced labor or services. ,- 18
PA.C.S. § 3002. The term "traffic" is defined as "recruits, entices, harbors, transports or
provides or obtains by any means." 18 Pa.C.S. § 3001. The term "forced labor or services" is
defined as:
(1) attempts to cause, causes or by threat of physical menace puts another
person in fear of bodily injury;
(2) physically restrains or threatens to physically restrain another person
unlawfully;
(3) abuses or threatens to abuse the law or legal process;
(4) possesses except as required by Federal immigration law or regulation,
destroys, conceals, removes or confiscates any actual or purported
passport or other immigration document of another person, or any other
actual or purported govermnent identification document of another person;
or
(5) engages in criminal coercion of another person.
18 Pa.C.S § 3001.
In the case at bar, Defendant transported Z.B. from Ford City, Pennsylvania, to
Defendant's home in Ebensburg, Cambria County, thus satisfying the definition of "traffics."
6
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N.T. (June 25, 2012), pp. 154-155. While at Defendant's home in Ebensburg, Defendant
subjected Z.B. to forcible sexual intercourse. Id. at pp. 97-100. Z.B. described feeling
"uncomfortable, scared." Id. at p. 99. Clearly Defendant's actions constituted "forced labor or
services," as Defendant caused Z.B. to be placed in fear of bodily injury and Defendant
physically retrained Z.B. for the unlawful purpose of engaging in involuntary deviate sexual
intercourse. 18 Pa.C.S. § 3001(1), (2). The evidence presented at trial was sufficient to sustain
the jury's guilty verdict on Trafficking of Persons. Accordingly, Defendant's third alleged error
must fail.
Purported Error No.4
Next, Defendant argues the Commonwealth's evidence was insufficient to prove the
following elements of Count Seven, Endangering the Welfare of a Child: (1) that Defendant
was acting as a "parent, guardian or other person supervising the welfare of a child under 18
years of age;" and (2) that Defendant engaged in a "course of conduct of endangering the
welfare ofa child." CONCISE STATEMENT, ~ 4.
The Court notes that the standard of review discussed above applies equally to
Defendant's fourth purported error. See, DISCUSSION OF PURPORTED ERROR No.3, Supra at pp.
6-7. The Pennsylvania Crimes Code defines Endangering the Welfare of a Child as follows:
A parent, guardian or other person supervising the welfare of a child under 18
years of age, or a person that employs or supervises such a person, commits an
offense if he knowingly endangers the welfare of the child by violating a duty of
care, protection or support.
18 PA.C.S.A. § 4304(a)(1).
Z.B.'s mother testified as follows: "[Defendant] was technically a godfather to [Z.B.].
[Defendant] was going to be if something would happen to me, he was going to be the one to
take over .... His relationship with Z.B. at the time was great. It was perfect." N.T. (June 25,
2012), pp. 151-152. Furthermore, Z.B.'s mother described Defendant as Z.B.'s "father, like a
father like figure for him." Id. at p. 157. Justin Cann, Defendant's roommate, described the
. relationship between Defendant and Z.B. as follows: "It was just a very nurturing relationship.
I mean, Z.B. didn't have his father in his life and [Defendant] was pretty much taking that role
7
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in his life." N.T. (June 25, 2012), p. 215. Z.B. often referred to Defendant as "dad" and Z.B.
testified that he "looked to [Defendant] as my dad." Id. at p. 91. Moreover, Z.B. would spend
weeks in the summer in Defendant's care. N.T. (June 25, 2012), p. 154. Clearly, Defendant
was acting as an "other person supervising the welfare of a child."
Next, whether there is a "course of conduct" is a question of fact that must be alleged in
the information, evidence of which must be elicited at trial and submitted to the jury. Cammw.
v. Papaw, 844 A.2d 13, 16 (Pa. Super. 2004)). In the case at bar, the Commonwealth alleged a
"course of conduct" in the Amended Information. AMENDED INFORMATION DATED JUNE 20,
2012. Z.B. clearly described two separate events during which Defendant engaged in
Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with Z.B. N.T. June 25, 2012), pp. 94-100. The jury
was instructed that "course of conduct" is defined as "a pattern of actions composed of more
than one act over a period of time, however short, evidencing a continuity of conduct." N.T.
(June 27, 2012), p. 221. The testimony was sufficient to show a course of conduct, and the jury
was properly instructed regarding this element. For these reasons, Defendant's fifth purported
error must fail.
Purported Error Nos. 5 and 6
Next, Defendant argues the Court erred in determining Z.B. was "competent to testify
and had not been tainted." CONCISE STATEMENT, ,-r 6. The issue of Z.B.'s possible taint was
first raised in Defendant's Supplemental Onmibus Pre-Trial Motion for Relief. SUPPLEMENTAL
OMNIBUS PRE-TRIAL MOTION FOR RELIEF FILED AUG. 1,2011, p. 2, ,-r,-r 6-15. At a September
20, 2011 Hearing, defense counsel requested the Court to defer ruling on the issue of taint
pending counsel's review of Z.B's Children & Youth Services records. N.T. (Sept. 20, 2011),
p. 8; ORDER DATED June 17, 2011, p. 2, ,-r 2. Thereafter, the issue was raised again in
Defendant's Second Supplemental Omnibus Pretrial Motion for Relief, filed on June 4, 2012.
SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL OMNIBUS PRETRIAL MOTION FOR RELIEF FILED JUNE 4,2012, pp. 5-7,
,-r,-r 9-14. The Court denied Defendant's request for a taint hearing by Order dated June 25,
2012. ORDERDATEDJUNE25,2012.
8
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Upon further examination, the Court concedes it should have conducted a competency
hearing outside the presence of the jury since Z.B. was less than 14 years old at the time of
trial. Commw. v. Shearer, 828 A.2d 383 (Pa. Super. 2003), appeal granted, 856 A.2d 834 (Pa.
2004); N.T. (June 25, 2012), p. 85. However, this Court elected not to remand for a
competency hearing when, based on the record, the child was clearly competent; Defendant did
not suffer prejudice; and remanding for a competency hearing would be a futile act. Commw.
v. Moore, 980 A.2d 647,658 CPa. Super. 2009).
In determining the competency of a child under 14 years old, the following IS
considered:
(1) such capacity to communicate, including as it does both an ability to
understand questions and to frame and express intelligent answers, (2) mental
capacity to observe the occurrence itself and the capacity of remembering 1-vhat it
is that she is called to testify about, and (3) a consciousness of the duty to speak
the truth.
Rosche v. McCoy, 156 A.2d 307, 310 (Pa. 1959) (emphasis in original). In the instant matter,
Z.B.'s testimony proves he was a competent witness. First, Z.B. understood the questions
posed to him and expressed intelligent answers. See generally N.T. (June 25, 2012), pp. 83-
121. Second, Z.B. exhibited the mental capacity to observe the event and remember what he
was called to testify about. For example:
Attorney Bernstein: Do you remember what you were wearing when [Defendant]
first came into your room?
Z.B.: My pj's.
Attorney Bernstein: And what happened to your pajamas?
Z.B.: He took them off.
Attorney Bernstein: He being Mr. Rugg, Patrick?
Z.B.: Yes.
Attorney Bernstein: I want you to tell this jury what the defendant did to you that
made you uncomfortable in your bedroom.
Z.B.: Hold on a minute. He had put his middle in my butt.
Attorney Bernstein: And when you say his middle, what part of the body is that?
Z.B.: (Indicating).
Attorney Bernstein: And what do you do with your middle?
Z.B.: Go to the bathroom.
Attorney Bernstein: So he put his middle in your butt?
Z.B.: Yes.
9
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Attorney Bernstein: And how did that make you feel?
Z.B.: Uncomfortable.
Attorney Bernstein: Now, you said he put his middle in your butt. How about, did he
do anything to your middle?
Z.B.: Yes.
Attorney Bernstein: Can you please tell the jury what he did?
Z.B.: He put his mouth on my middle.
Attorney Bernstein: He put his mouth on your middle?
Z.B.: Yes.
Attorney Bernstein: Once he put his mouth on there, what did he do?
Z.B.: Moved his head up and down.
Attorney Bernstein: [Z.B.J, when he put his middle in your butt, did something
happen to his middle?
Z.B.: Yes. Stuff came out.
Attorney Bernstein: Stuff came out? What happened to the stuff?
Z.B.: It was still in my butt.
Attorney Bernstein: Now, did you ever see it or feel it when you were at the Ford City
house?
Z.B.: Yes.
Attorney Bernstein: Did you see it?
Z.B.: Yes.
Attorney Bernstein: Can you please describe it to the jury?
Z.B.: It was like mucus.
N.T. (June 25, 2012), pps. 94-97. Third, Z.B. indicated he understood the difference between
the truth and a lie. N.T. (June 25, 2012), pp. 83-85. For the reasons set forth above, Z.B. was
competent to testify, and remanding this matter for competency proceedings would be a futile
act.
Furthermore, the concerns underlying the competency test "become less relevant as the
witness's age increases, ultimately being rendered totally irrelevant as a matter of law by age
fourteen." Commw. v. Judd, 897 A.2d 1224, 1229 CPa. Super. 2006). In the instant matter,
Z.B. was born on September 11, 1998, and he reached the age of 14 less than three months after
the trial. N.T. (June 25, 2012), p. 85. For this reason, remanding this issue would not only be
futile, but it would be irrelevant as a matter of law.
Next, the Court addresses Defendant's claim that Z.B. was incompetent because he was
a tainted witness. "In order to trigger an investigation of competency on the issue of taint, the
moving party must show some evidence of taint. Once some evidence of taint is presented, the
10
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competency hearing must be expanded to explore this specific question." Commw. v.
Delbridge, 855 A.2d 27, 40-41 CPa. 2003). To suggest taint, Defendant relies on the fact that
Z.B. was interviewed during the investigation. N.T. (June 19, 2012), p. 3. During argument,
defense counsel petitioned the Court to release additional records that he believed may be
relevant to the issue of taint. Id at pp. 3-4. Defendant's request for additional records belies
1
his assertion that he presented evidence of taint sufficient to trigger a taint hearing.
Additionally, unlike the defendant in Delbridge, Defendant in the case at bar failed to present
evidence of suggestive interview techniques, vilification of the accused, or interview bias. 855
A.2d at p. 41. Moreover, the children at issue in Delbridge were much younger than Z.B., i.e.,
six and four at the time of the incident. !d. For these reasons, Defendant's sixth purported
error should be denied.
Purported Error No.7
Next, Defendant argues the Court erred in finding sufficient evidence to prove
Defendant is a sexually violent predator. CONCISE STATEMENT, ~ 7. This Court relies on its
Opinion dated June 21, 2013 regarding this issue.
Purported Error No.8
Finally, Defendant argues this Court erred in denying the suppression motion set forth
in his Third Supplemental Omnibus Pretrial Motion for Relief, where Defendant asked for
suppression of a CD containing various images seized from Defendant's laptop. CONCISE
STATEMENT, ~ 8; THIRD SUPPLEMENTAL OMNIBUS PRETRIAL MOTION FOR RELIEF, pp. 1-2, ~ 1-
3. This Court entertained argument on Defendant's Motion to Suppress on June 19, 2012.
N.T. (June 19,2012), pp. 18-24. By Order dated June 22, 2012, the Court denied Defendant's
Motion to Suppress. ORDER DATED JUNE 22, 20 12, ~ 1.
A search and seizure must be initiated pursuant to a warrant except, inter alia, when a
person voluntarily consents to a search. Commw. v. Edwards, 735 A.2d 723, 725 CPa. Super.
1 Moreover, the Court noted that Defendant requested additional records on the eve of jury selection; and the Court
was not inclined to order a taint hearing based on the evidence submitted by Defendant. N.T. (June 19,2012), p.
14.
11
Ci.fculated 01/27/2015 11 :43 A
1999) (internal citations omitted). For the consent to be valid, it must be "unequivocal,
specific, and voluntary." Id. (internal citations omitted). In the case at bar, a search of
Defendant's laptop was performed pursuant to a "Waiver of Rights and Consent to Search"
signed by Defendant. COURT Ex. 1. Defendant does not argue the consent was invalid; rather,
Defendant avers the information sought to be suppressed was outside the scope of the consent.
The description of items to be searched for and seized included "images, photographs,
videos, etc of any illegal pornography." COURT Ex. 1. In addition, the Waiver contained a
provision permitting seizure of the following:
(l) any contraband, the fruits of a cnme or things otherwise criminally
possessed.
(2) property which is or has been used as the means of committing a
criminal offense.
(3) property which constitutes evidence of the commission of a
criminal offense.
COURT Ex. 1. The search revealed non-pornographic images of Defendant and Z.B., which
the prosecution sought to introduce at trial for the purposes of establishing the relationship
between them. N.T. (June 19,2012), pp. 20, 23.
Defendant was charged with, inter alia, Endangering the Welfare of a Child pursuant to
18 Pa.C.S.A. § 4304(a)(l). The offense is defined as follows:
A parent, guardian or other person supervising the welfare of a child under 18
years of age, or a person that employs or supervises such a person, commits an
offense if he knowingly endangers the welfare of the child by violating a duty of
care, protection or support.
Id. The seized photographs depict Defendant and Z.B. engaged in various activities, including
one photograph of Defendant and Z.B. in bed together. N.T. (June 25, 2012), COMMW. Ex.
18. The photographs were relevant to demonstrate an element of the crime, namely, that
Defendant acted as a "guardian or other person supervising the welfare of a child under 18
years of age." Accordingly, the photographs are "property which constitutes evidence of the
commission of a criminal offense." COURT Ex. 1.
12
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\, .
CONCLUSION
For the reasons set forth above, the Trial Court respectfully requests that the Orders
dated June 25, 2012; June 21,2013; and December 27, 2013; as well as the convictions and
sentences imposed; are AFFIRMED.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED:
Linda Rovder Fleming, J.
COPIES TO:
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Circulated 01/27/2015 11 :43 AM
WAIVER OF RIGHTS AND COHSEtH TO'SEARCH ~i
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UNLESS I. GIVE;v.fYiCONSENT. NONETIIELESS, I VOLUNTt\RILY GIVG ,\I~'. CO,'lSENT TO THE POLICE TO
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(5) I also understan~ that in addition to the items described anove, if the folIo\i'ingi~ fount.! it may also he seized:
(1) any contrab'and, the fruits or a crime or Ihings ot"erwisecrimin~IIy [losscsscLl.
(2) properly.ivhich is or has been used as the means of commiuing a criminal offense.
0) property Ivhich cUllstituIcs evidcncc of tlie cOlJ1lJ1ission uf a crilllinllI ofr<:nsl'.
(6) No one, including anyone i'rulll or any other police. oHiter, has thrctlicilcd llIe iii
any,~vay, norha:~a:nything been promised'to Illcin return fQr gi\'ing my consent.to coni:luct this search.
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(PRtl'-IT NAMEl IADDRESSI
·,NA·TURE) ICITY,STATE)
COURT'S
EXHIBIT NO. _1___
TIME.::: IDENTIFICATION/EVIDENCE
DKT. # 13,-,; 2- 20 10 "11\11.:::
DATE:
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CAMBRIA COUNTY, ~ENNSYLVANIA
CRIMINAL DIVISION
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COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA: No. 1342-2010 3:. <- r'l
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PATRICK L. RUGG, 7- :::~ :x f"li
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Defendant. -OW N
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**************
APPEARANCES:
For the Commonwealth: TAMARA R. BERNSTEIN, ESQUIRE
Assistant District Attorney
For the Defendant: THOMAS W. DICKEY, ESQUIRE
**************
OPINION
FLEMING, J., June 21, 2013. This Court is called upon to decide two issues: (1) the
admissibility of expert reports introduced at a February 26, 2013 Sexually Violent Predator
Determination Hearing; and (2) whether the Commonwealth met its burden qf proving by clear
and convincing evidence that Defendant, Patrick L. Rugg, is a Sexually Violent Predator. The
parties were directed to submit briefs addressing the ad.missibility of the expert reports. N.T.
(February 26, 2013), pp. 77-78. On March 26, 2013, Defendant filed a "Brief on SVP
Determination Hearing." On March 28, 2013, the Commonwealth filed its "Memorandum
Regarding SVP Hearing."
FACTUAL BACKGROUND
On June 27,2012, ajury found Defendant guilty of four counts of Involuntary Deviate
Sexual Intercourse with a Child, one count of Trafficking of Person, one count of Indecent
Assault, one count of Endangering the Welfare of Children, and one count of Corruption of
Circulated 01/27/2015 11 :43 AM
I
\
Minors. This Court required Defendant to undergo a sexually violent predator assessment in
accordance with 42 Pa.C.S.A. §979S.4(a) (May 29, 2007) (current version at 42 Pa.C.S.A.
§9799.24 (Dec. 20, 2012)).1 ORDER DATED July 20,2012.
Herbert Hays, a member of the Sexual Offender Assessment Board ["SOAB"],
performed the assessment of Defendant on September 13, 2012. N.T. (February 26, 2013),
Comm. Ex. 1. Mr. Hays concluded that Defendant meets the criteria to be classified as a
sexually violent predator. Id., p. 7. On September 20, 2012, the Commonwealth requested a
hearing pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. §979S.4(e)(1) (current version at 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.24(e)(1)).
On September 24,2012, the Court granted the Commonwealth's request for a hearing. ORDER
DATED SEPTEMBER 24, 2012. On October 19, 2012, Defendant filed a Motion Requesting
Assessment Expert. Following a hearing, the Court.determined Defendant to be indigent and
appointed Dr. Scott Scotilla to be the defepse expert. ORDER DATED DECEMBER 7,2012. This
Court conducted the sexually violent predator hearing on February 26,2013.
LEGAL DISCUSSION
Admissibility of the Sexually Violent Predator Assessment prepared by Mr. Hays
Defendant argues against admission of the Sexually Violent Predator ["SVP"]
Assessment and admission of Mr. Hays as an expert. DEFENDANT'S BRIEF, pp. 7-9.
Specifically, Defendant argues that (1) the Commonwealth offered Defendant as "an expert in
the field of fotensic examination, specifically whether an individual meets the criteria as a
sexually violent predator," which is at odds with statutory language; (2) Mr. Hays lacked a
foundation by relying on the guilty verdicts without transcripts of the proceedings; (3) the
process employed by Mr. Hays was "tautological" in that "the convictions equaled pedophilia;
I The Court references the applicable version of the statute at the time of the proceeding.
2
Circ~lated 01/27/2015 11 :43 AM
( (
pedophilia equaled mental abnormality; pedophilia equaled no cure; no cure equaled re-
offense; and the sum equaled sexually violent predator." DEFENDANT'S BRIEF, pp. 7-9.
The Commonwealth asserts that the SVP Assessment was properly admitted, as Mr.
Hays considered all fourteen factors mandated by 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9795.4(b) (current version 42
Pa.C.S.A. 9799.24(b)). COMMW. BRIEF, p. 1. Furthermore, the Commonwyalth argues that a
sexually violent predator designation is not based on a finding that a specific number of the
factors are relevant. COMMW. BRIEF, pp. 1-2 (citing C;ommw. v. Meals, 912 A.2d 213 (Pa.
2005); Commw v. Brooks, 7 A.3d 852 (Pa. Super. 2010)). Therefore, the Commonwealth
asserts the SVP Assessment is proper as Mr. Hays reviewed and addressed all fourteen factors.
COMMW. BRIEF, pp. 1-2.
The Court turns to the first of Defendant's arguments, i.e., that the Commonwealth's
acceptance of Mr. Hays as an expert is at odds with the statute. DEFENDANT'S BRIEF, p. 7. Mr.
Hays is a current member of the Sexual Offender Assessment Board. N.T. (February 26,
2013), p. 5. Mr. Hays has conducted 976 sexually violent predator assessments for the courts.
N.T. (February 26, 2013), p. 4. Mr. Hays has testified as an expert in the field of forensic
examination of sexually violent predators in 24 Pennsylvania counties. N.T. (February 26,
2013), pp. 5-6. By statute, Mr. Hays is an expert in"the behavior and treatment of sexual
offenders." 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.3(a) (current version 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.35(a)). Additionally,
through his extensive experience, Mr. Hays qualifies as an expert in "forensic examination,
specifically regarding assessment of sexual offenders." N.T. (February 26,2013), pp. 10-11;
P A.R.E. 702. Accordingly, Mr. Hays possesses the knowledge, skill, trcUning, and" experience
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necessary to opine whether Defendant meets the criteria of a sexually violent ·predator. PA.R.E.
Next, Defendant argues that the Syp Assessment lacked the proper foundation, as Mr.
Hays relied on Defendant's conviction without reviewing transcripts from the criminal
proceedings. DEFENDANT'S BRIEF, p. 7. Pennsylvania Rule of Evidence 703 provides as
follows:
The facts or data in the particular case upon which an expert bas~s an opinion or
inference may be those perceived by or made known to the expert at or before the
hearing. If of a type reasonably relied upon by experts in the particular field in
forming opinions or inferences upon the subject, the facts or data need not be
admissible in evidence
Defendant cites no case law or statutory authority for the assertion that a Board member
performing an SVP Assessment is required to rely on transcripts. The SVP Assessment at bar
sets forth that Mr. Hays relied on, inter alia, an· interview with Defendant, Pennsylvania
Childline Records, the information, the verdicts, the affidavit of probable cause, the incident
investigation report, and a transcript of witness testimony. N.T. (February 26, 2013), Ex. 1, p.
1. Accordingly, the Court finds that Mr. Hays relied on sufficient facts and data to satisfy the
requirements of Pennsylvania Rule of Evidence 703 in preparing his SVP Assessment.
Finally, the Court addresses Defendant's claim that the SVP Assessment was improper
because Defendant was determined to be a sexually violent predator based solely on his
conviction of a crime fitting the definition of pedophilia. DEFENDANT'S BRIEF, pp. 7_8.3
Defendant ostensibly relies on Rule of Evidence 703; however, this Court d~termined that the
2 The Court finds no relevance in Defendant's statement that Mr. Hays did not use his background in psychology
when assessing Defendant. Commw. v. Conklin, 897 A.2d 1168, 1176 (Pa. 2006) (finding that the statute does not
require a psychiatrist or psychologist to perform a sexually violent predator assessment).
3 The Court will address this argument in terms of the weight the Court should afford to the Assessment in the
Court's SVP determination below.
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SVP Assessment was supported by a sufficient foundation. See supra, pp. 4-5. Moreover, the
Board member performing the assessment is not required to find all fourteen factors relevant,
nor is the member required to give weight to all fourteen factors. Comm}li. v. Meals, 912 A.2d
213 (Pa. 2005); Commw v. Brooks, 7 A.3d 852 (Pa. Super. 2010). Mr. Hays' SVP Assessment
clearly considers the fourteen factors outlined by the statute. 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9795.4(b) (current
version 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.24(b». The Court concludes that the Commonw~aIth established a
sufficient foundation for admitting the SVP Assessment and, further, that the SVP Assessment
complied with the relevant statutory criteria.
For the reasons set forth above, the Court AFFIRMS admission of the SVP
Assessment into evidence.
Admissibility ofDr. Scott Scotilla 's Report
We tum next to the admissibility of Dr. Scott Scotilla's report. Dr. Scotilla was
qualified by the Court as an expert in the field of psychology. N.T. (February 26, 2013), p. 49.
The Commonwealth argues that Dr. Scotilla's report is irrelevant because (1) Dr. Scotilla does
not possess the necessary education, training, or experience regarding sex offenders and
assessments; (2) Dr. Scotilla did not rely on the fourt~en statutory factors in performing the
assessment; (3) Dr. ScotiIla did not accept Defendant's conviction as a conclusive
detemlination of his guilt; and (4) Dr. Scotilla testified that the diagnosis of pedophilia hinged
on whether Defendant's appeal is won or lost.. COMMW. BRIEF, pp. 2-4. Defendant counters
that the testimony of Dr. Scotilla is admissible because it focuses on negating the diagnosis of
pedophilia and the likelihood ofre-offense. DEFENDANT'S BRIEF, pp. 9-ll.
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The Commonwealth proved by clear and convincing evidence that Defendant is a Sexually
Violent Predator.
The Commonwealth has the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that
Defendant meets the criteria to be classified as a sexually violent predator. 42 Pa.C.S.A.
§9799.24(a). The clear and convincing evidence standard is described as an "intermediate
test," i. e., more exacting than a preponderance of the evidence standard, but1ess exacting than
proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Meals, 912 A.2d at 219.
Pursuant to the SVP statute, the Commonwealth must first show that Defendant has
been convicted of a sexually violent offense as set forth in 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.14. Next, the
Commonwealth must prove that Defendant has a mental abnormality or personality disorder
that makes him likely to engage in predatory sexually violent offenses. 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.l2;
Commw. v. Whanger, 30 A.3d 1212, 1214 (Pa. Super. 2011). "Mental a~normalityl' is defined
as "a congenital or acquired condition of a person that affects the emotional or volitional
capacity of the person in a manner that predisposes that person to the commission of criminal
sexual acts to· a degree that makes the person a menace to the health and safety of other
persons." 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.l2. "Predatory" is defined as "an act directed at a stranger or at a
person with whom a relationship has been initiated; established, maintained or promoted, in
whole or in part, in order to facilitate or support victimization." 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.12.
In a sexually violent predator determination, the following factors should be considered:
(1) Facts of the current offense, including:
(i) Whether the offense involved multiple victims.
(ii) Whether the individual exceeded the means necessary to achieve
the offense.
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(iii) The nature of the sexual contact with the victim.
(iv) Relationship of the individual to the victim.
(v) Age of the victim.
(vi) Whether the offense included a display of unusual cruelty by ~he
individual during the commission of the crime.
(vii) The mental capacity of the victim.
(2) Prior offense history, including:
(i) The individual's prior criminal record.
(ii) Whether the individual completed any prior sentences.
(iii) Whether the individual participated in available programs for
sexual offenders. .
(3) Characteristics of the individual, including:
(i) Age. .
(ii) Use of illegal drugs.
(iii) Any mental illness, mental disability or mental abnormality.
(iv) Behavioral characteristics that contribute to the individual's
conduct.
(4) Factors that are suppOlied in a se~ual offender assessment field as criteria
reasonably related to the risk ofreoffense.
42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.24(a).
Defendant's conviction on, inter alia, Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse qualifies
him for SVP assessment under the statute. Defendant was convicted prior to the effective date
of the current version of the Registration of Sexual Offenders Statute, i.e., December 20, 2012.
42 Pa.C.S.A. §§9799.10-9799.41. The Court notes that Defendant would be subject to
assessment under a reading of both the current and former versions of the statute. 42 Pa.C.S.A.
§9799.24(a) (current version); 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9795.4 (former version). Under the current
version, Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse is a Tier III sexual offense that falls under the
definition of "sexually violent offense." 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.12 (defining "sexually violent
offense" as a Tier I, II or III offense as listed in §9799.14); 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9799.14(d)(4) (listing
Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse as a Tier III offense). Likewise, under the prior version
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( .
of the statute, an individual convicted of Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse is also subject
to assessment. 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9795.4; 42 Pa.C.S.A. §9795.1(b)(2)(i).
Next, the Court concludes the Commonwealth met its burden of proving that Defendant
suffers fro1ll a mental abnormality or personality disorder. Mr. Hays testified that pedophilia
meets the definition of a mental abnormality. N.T. (February 26, 2013), pp. 32-33; see also
Commw v. L eddington , 908 A.2d 328, 335 (Pa. Super. 2006) (describing pedophilia as a
"mental abnormality in the most decisive sense of the term"). At the SVP Hearing, Mr. Hays
described a diagnosis of pedophilia as involving the following: (l) a person 16 years of age or
older; (2) who has a sexual attraction (fantasies, urges or behaviors) towards a child; (3) where
the child is more than five years younger than the individual in question; (4) and where the
behavior persists over a period of at least six months. N.T. (February 26, :2013), pp. 17-18. 5
Mr. Hays testified that offenders who have male victims are twice as likely to reoffend as
offenders who have female victims. N.T. (February 26, 2013), p. 18. Further, Mr. Hays
testified that, according to professional literature and the DSM-IV, pedophilia is a lifetime
condition with no cure. N.T. (February 26, 2013), p. 20. 6
The following factors weigh in favor of qualifying Defendant as a sexually violent
predator: First, Defendant engaged in a sexual relationship with the victim for a period of
fourteen months. ASSESSMENT, p. 4, ~ 3. The victim was between 10 and 11 years old at the
time of the sexual contact. Id, p. 4, ~ 5. At the time of the sexual contact, Defendant was
between 30 arid 31 years of age. Id, p. 5, ~ 1. Defendant gained access to the victim by
gaining the trust of his mother, who allowed Defendant to provide child care. Id, p. 5, ~ 4.
5Dr. Scotilla did not dispute this description of a pedophilia diagno~is. N.T. (February 26,2013), pp. 61-62.
6Defendant offered no evidence to rebut these statements. In fact, Dr. Scotilla agreed with Mr. Hays's definition
a
of pedophilia and his conclusion that pedophilia is mental abnormality. N.T. (February 26, 2013), p. 67.
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I
Additionally, Defendant "groomed" the victim to participate in sex acts. N.T. (February 26,
2013), p. 21.
The following factors weigh against qualifying Defendant as a sexually violent
predator: First, Defendant did not have multiple victims. ASSESSMENT, p. 3, 4J 1. Defendant
did not exceed the means necessary to achieve the offense. Id., p. 3, 4J 2. Defendant did not
display unusual cruelty during the commission of the crime. Id., p. 4, 4J 6. Defendant does not
have any prior offenses, nor has Defendant completed .any prior sentences. Id., p. 4, 4J4J 1-2.
Defendant did not use any illegal drugs in the commission of the crime. Id., p. 5, 4J 2.
Defendant does not have a record of a mental health diagnosis. Id., p. 5, 4J 3.
Defendant was convicted of engaging in oral and anal intercourse with the victim, who
was then a prepubescent child, over a period of six months. N.T. (February 26,2013), pp. 17-
18. Mr. Hays testified to a reasonable degree of professional certainty that Defendant suffers
from the mental abnormality of pedophilia and meets the criteria to be classified as a sexually
violent predator. N.T. (February 26, 2013), pp. 18-21. Dr. Scotilla agreed that the facts, as the
jury found them to exist, support a pedophilia diagnosis and that Defendant meets the definition
of a pedophile per the verdict. N.T. (February 26, 2013), pp. 61-62. However, after
performing objective tests and evaluating Defendant, . Dr. Scotilla concluded that no other
evidence ~ aside from the conviction - supports a pedophilia diagnosis. N.T. (February 26,
2013), 59. Dr. Scotilla relies on Defendant's protestations of iImocence in concluding that
Defendant's diagnosis "hinged entirely oli whether his appeal was lost or won." N.T.
(February 26,2013), p. 54.
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Based on the evidence submitted at the Sexually Violent Predator Hearing and the
statutory factors, this Court finds that Defendant meet.s the criteria for Pedophilia, Sexually
Attracted to Males. ASSESSMENT, p. 6, ~ 1. Because pedophilia qualifies as a mental
ab.n0rmality, this Court concludes the Commonwealth has met its burden of proving that
Defendant suffers from a mental abnormality. Leddington, 908 A.2d at 335. Further, Mr. Hays
testified without opposition that pedophilia is an incurable lifetime condition. N.~. (February
26,2013), p. 18. Because Defendant meets the criteria of pedophilia and because he repeatedly
assaulted the victim with no intention of stopping, the Court finds there is a likelihood of re-
offense. ASSESSMENT, p. 6, ~ 4. Finally, the Court finds that Defendant's actions meet the
definition of predatory behavior. Defendant groomed the victim and maintained a relationship
with the victim's mother by providing child care, thereby affording Defendant the opportunity
to sexually abuse victim. Id., p. 5, ~ 4; N.T. (February 26,2013), p. 20.
F Of the aforementioned reasons, this Court finds that the Commonwealth has sustained
its' burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that Defendant is a sexually violent
predator within the meaning of the statute.
ACCORDINGL Y THE FOLLOWING ORDER IS ENTERED:
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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CRIMINAL DIVISION
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA: No. 1342 - 2010
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APPEARANCES:
For the Commonwealth: TAMARA R. BERNSTEIN, ESQUIRE
Assistant District Attorney
For the Defendant: THOMAS W. DICKEY, ESQUIRE
*******.*******
ORDER
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AND NOW, this 21 day of June, 2013, it is hereby ORDERED and DECREED as
follows:
1. The Sexually Violent Predator Assessment prepared by Herbert Hays, member
of the Sexual Offender Assessment Board, is ADMITTED.
2. The report prepared by defense expert, Dr. Scott ScotiIla, is ADMITTED.
3. The Commonwealth met its burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence
that Defendant is a Sexually Violent Predator within the meaning of 42 Pa.C.S.A. §§
9799.24(a), 9799.12.
BY THE COURT: