Com. v. Hughes, R.

J-A24001-15
NON-PRECEDENTIAL DECISION - SEE SUPERIOR COURT I.O.P. 65.37
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF
PENNSYLVANIA
Appellee
v.
RICK HUGHES
Appellant No. 1071 EDA 2014
Appeal from the Judgment of Sentence January 24, 2014
In the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County
Criminal Division at No(s): CP-51-CR-0008292-2009
BEFORE: PANELLA, J., WECHT, J., and STRASSBURGER, J.*
MEMORANDUM BY PANELLA, J. FILED OCTOBER 23, 2015
Appellant, Rick Hughes, appeals from the judgment of sentence
entered on January 24, 2014, by the Honorable Sandy L. V. Byrd, in the
Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County. We affirm.
The factual history of this matter is well known to the parties, so we
rely upon the trial court’s recitation of the facts as set forth on pages 2-8 of
the Rule 1925(a) opinion. Briefly, Hughes and Christopher Cottle entered
the home of the victim, Joseph Brigman. While Cottle restrained the victim,
Hughes stabbed the victim to death. Thereafter, the victim’s home was set
on fire in what neighbors described as an explosion. The victim’s body was
____________________________________________
*
Retired Senior Judge assigned to the Superior Court.
J-A24001-15
discovered inside of the home. Hughes’s brother later confessed to being
the “lookout” and detailed the incidents of the crime to the police.
A jury convicted Hughes of arson, conspiracy to commit arson, and
recklessly endangering another person.1 On January 24, 2014, the trial
court sentenced Hughes to an aggregate term of 15-30 years’ incarceration,
followed by 10 years’ probation. Hughes filed a post-sentence motion, which
the trial court denied. This timely appeal followed.
Hughes raises the following issues for our review.
I. Did the trial court err by denying Appellant’s Motion for
Directed [V]erdict?
II. Should Appellant’s convictions be vacated where the
evidence presented was insufficient to sustain the verdict?
III. Is Appellant entitled to a new trial where the verdict was
against the weight of the evidence?
IV. Did the trial court err by admitting the unqualified medical
expert testimony of Fire Marshall Ramseur?
V. Did the trial court err by admitting improper evidence of
Appellant’s prior bad acts?
Appellant’s Brief at 2.
We proceed by first addressing Hughes’s weight of the evidence claim.
We note that “a weight of the evidence claim must be preserved either in a
post-sentence motion, by a written motion before sentencing, or orally prior
to sentencing.” Commonwealth v. Thomson, 93 A.3d 478, 490 (Pa.
____________________________________________
1
18 Pa.C.S.A. §§ 3301(a)(1)(i), 903(a)(1), and 2705, respectively.
-2-
J-A24001-15
Super. 2014) (citing Pa.R.Crim.P. 607). Failure to do so will result in waiver
of the claim on appeal. See id.
Instantly, Hughes failed to raise a challenge to the weight of the
evidence to support his conviction either at sentencing or in his post-
sentence motion.2 Therefore, this claim is waived. See id.
Upon review of Hughes’s remaining claims, we observe that issues I.
and II. both raise challenges to the sufficiency of the evidence to sustain
Hughes’s convictions.3 See Commonwealth v. Manley, 985 A.2d 256,
271-272 (Pa. Super. 2009) (“A motion for judgment of acquittal challenges
the sufficiency of the evidence to sustain a conviction on a particular charge,
and is granted only in cases in which the Commonwealth has failed to carry
its burden regarding that charge.”). Appellate review of a challenge to the
sufficiency of the evidence is as follows.
The standard we apply in reviewing the sufficiency of the
evidence is whether viewing all the evidence admitted at trial in
the light most favorable to the verdict winner, there is sufficient
evidence to enable the fact-finder to find every element of the
crime beyond a reasonable doubt. In applying [the above] test,
we may not weigh the evidence and substitute our judgment for
the fact-finder. In addition, we note that the facts and
circumstances established by the Commonwealth need not
preclude every possibility of innocence. Any doubts regarding a
defendant’s guilt may be resolved by the fact-finder unless the
____________________________________________
2
Hughes’ post-sentence motion, filed February 3, 2014, did not include a
weight of the evidence claim.
3
Hughes mistakenly uses the term “Motion for Directed Verdict” rather than
“Motion for Judgment of Acquittal” throughout his brief.
-3-
J-A24001-15
evidence is so weak and inconclusive that as a matter of law no
probability of fact may be drawn from the combined
circumstances. The Commonwealth may sustain its burden of
proving every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt
by means of wholly circumstantial evidence. Moreover, in
applying the above test, the entire record must be evaluated and
all evidence actually received must be considered. Finally, the
[finder] of fact, while passing upon the credibility of witnesses
and the weight of the evidence produced, is free to believe all,
part or none of the evidence.
Commonwealth v. Valentine, 101 A.3d 801, 805 (Pa.Super. 2014)
(citation omitted; brackets in original).
Hughes’s remaining claims challenge the admissibility of evidence. We
note that “the admission of evidence is within the sound discretion of the
trial court and will be reversed only upon a showing that the trial court
clearly abused its discretion.” Commonwealth v. Fransen, 42 A.3d 1100,
1106 (Pa. Super. 2012) (internal citations omitted).
“The purpose of expert testimony is to assist in grasping complex
issues not within the ordinary knowledge, intelligence and experience of the
jury.” Commonwealth v. Mendez, 74 A.3d 256, 262 (Pa. Super. 2013),
appeal denied, 87 A.3d 319 (Pa. 2014). A layperson, however, “may
testify to distinct facts observed by him concerning the apparent physical
condition or appearance of another.” Commonwealth v. Counterman,
553 Pa. 370, 404, 719 A.2d 284, 301 (1998) (citation omitted).
In reviewing a court’s decision to permit evidence of alleged prior bad
acts, we note that it is impermissible to present evidence at trial of a
defendant’s prior bad acts or crimes to establish the defendant’s criminal
-4-
J-A24001-15
character or proclivities. See Pa.R.E. 404(b); Commonwealth v. Hudson,
955 A.2d 1031, 1034 (Pa. Super. 2008). Such evidence, however, may be
admissible “where it is relevant for some other legitimate purpose and not
utilized solely to blacken the defendant’s character.” Commonwealth v.
Russell, 938 A.2d 1082, 1092 (Pa. Super. 2007) (citation omitted).
We have reviewed Hughes’s issues raised on appeal, along with the
briefs of the parties, the certified record and the applicable law. Having
determined that the Honorable Sandy L. V. Byrd’s opinion ably and
comprehensively disposes of the issues raised on appeal, with appropriate
reference to the record and without legal error, we will affirm on the basis of
that opinion. See Trial Court Opinion, 12/3/14, at 10-17, 21-23.
Judgment of sentence affirmed.
Judgment Entered.
Joseph D. Seletyn, Esq.
Prothonotary
Date: 10/23/2015
-5-
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
.. ,.)
/
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS PHILADELPHIA COUNTY
CIUMINAL TRIAL DIVISION
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
v. SUPERIOR COURT
RICK I-IDGHES
Fi LED
1071 EDA 2014
DEC O 3 2014
~ C1ifnw,~1 At;~~ls Unit
il1rst Judi(W:I District of PA
OPINION
Byrd, J. December 3, 2014
Rick Hughes filed a direct appeal from this court's October l, 2013 judgment of sentence. In
accordance with the requirements of PA. R.APP. PROC. 1925, this court submits the following
Opinion.
I. PROCEDURAL IDSTORY
Defendant Rick Hughes was arrested on April 17, 2009 and charged with a range of offenses.' On
April 24, 2014 defendant's jury trial was aborted due to a confrontation clause violation, and a new
trial commenced on the same day. On May 1, 2013, defendant was again granted a mistrial after the
jury hung on the charges of arson, -recklessly endangering another person, conspiracy to commit
arson, conspiracy to commit murder, and murder of'the third degree.
On October 25, 2013, after a jury trial before this court, defendant was convicted of arson,
recklessly endangering another person, and conspiracy to commit arson. On January 24, 2014,
'Defendant was charged with murder of the first, second and third degrees (18 PA. CONS. STAT. ANN.§§ 2502(a-c));
criminal conspiracy-engaging in murder s 903 (a)(l); arson§ 330l(a)(l)(i); causing catastrophe§ 3302 (a); possessing
an instrument of crime§ 907 (a); recklessly endangering another person§ 2705; conspiracy to commit arson§ 903 (c);
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
defendant was sentenced to 10-20 years on the arson charge and a consecutive 5-10 years, fol,lowed
by 10 years consecutive reporting probation on the conspiracy to commit arson; the charge of
recklessly endangering another person was merged with arson.' On February 3, 2014, defendant filed
a Post-Sentence Motion to Reconsider Sentence and the motion was denied on March 7, 2014
following a hearing on the matter. Defendant filed a Notice of Appeal on April 6, 2014. Appellate
counsel entered their appearance for defendant on April 9, 2014. This court then issued an order on
April 9, 2014 directing defendant to file a Statement of Matters Complained of on Appeal in
accordance with PA. R.APP. PROC. 1925 (b ). On April 30, 20.14, defendant filed a Motion for an
Extension of Time to File a Supplemental Statement of Errors Complained of on Appeal pending
receipt of the notes of testimony. On May 9, 2014 an extension to file was granted until May 30,
2014. The said statement was received in judicial chambers on June 3, 2014, dated June 1, 2014, and
appears never to have been filed.
IT, FACTUAL BACKGROUND
At trial the Commonwealth presented evidence which when viewed in the light most
favorable to the Commonwealth as the verdict winner, established the following.
In 2007 defendant had been dating the mother of one of his ten children, Lasheena Cottle, for
approximately six months. NT. 10/22/2013 at 178. Ms. Cottle resided in her family home located at
2428 Patton Street in North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with her uncle and two older brothers,
Christopher and Brandon Cottle.3 Although defendant resided in West Philadelphia with his mother,
he would often visit the Cottle residence during the day and sleep there over night. Id at 179.
and conspiracy to commit robbery § 903 ( c).
2
Defendant received an aggregate sentence of l 5-30 years confinement followed by 10 years consecutive reporting
probation.
3
The Cottle brothers were previously arrested and convicted in separate proceedings regarding the present factual matter.
N. T. 10/24/2013 at 24. Brandon Cottle, who was implicated in the death of decedent by virtue ofa guilty plea, testified as
2
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
Defendant was seen at the Cottle residence in the early morning hours on January 13, 2007 .1d. Later
that morning, around 10:00 a.m., a loud explosion was heard at 2421 North Patton Street, which is
just across the street from the Cottle residence. Id. at 127. The property was found to be engulfed in
flames and the surrounding area was :filled with smoke. Id at 42, 129.
David Smith, a resident ofthe area testified that immediately after the explosion, he saw
Christopher Cottle running with a limp from the property along with another male. Id. at 140.
Although Mr. Smith failed to make a conclusive in court identification of defendant as the other male
suspect, 4 he definitively identified the other mare as "Lasheena Cattle's boyfriend" in a verbatim
statement taken by homicide detectives during an interview six weeks after the incident. Id, at 140-
141,146, 158~161. Ms .. Cottle testified that although she last saw defendant approximately 15-20
minutes before the explosion, he was not in her home located across the street from 2421 North
Patton Street, at the time ofthe explosion. Id. at 184, 219. Philadelphia fire fighters arrived on scene
shortly after 10:00 a.m. Where the small row home, tightly attached to adjacent properties, was fully
. .
engulfed in flames. Id. at 27, 42, 144. At approximately 10:24 a.m., while members of the fire
department were still on the scene, and after an initial examination of the property, the on duty fire
marshal discovered the decedent's body on the first floor of the two-story house. Id. at 24, 42.
The body of decedent, fifty-eight year old Joseph Brigman, was found in the living room
area, in front of what remained of a sofa, lying in a prone position on his right side with his head
against the wall. Id. at 69, 90. Afterexamining decedent's body, fire.marshals discovered several
suspicious puncture wounds and detectives were then notified and dispatched to the location. Id,·
N. T I 0/24/2013 at 13. _Upon arrival, detectives observed that the street was littered with debris, the
fll acco°:pliceth~t on the day of the firehe last saw d~edent when !1e sold decedent crack cocai~e.Id. at. 24, 34.
Mr. Smith sustained a gunshot wound to the .head which affected his pre-201 O long-term memories. N.T. 10/22/13 at
162, 167-168.
3
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
windows on the property were blown out, the front door was blown off, and the back wall was
destroyed. Id. While surveying the neighborhood and searching for potential witnesses, detectives
observed Christopher Cottle walking around the area of the crime scene and in front of the property.
Id at 14. Detectives testified that Mr. Cottle appeared to always be close by when they
unsuccessfully attempted to approach and speak to potential witnesses. Id. at 15.
Mr. Smith further testified that later that day, after he saw Christopher Cottles limping from
decedent's property following the explosion, he asked Mr. Cottles "why he would do something like
that?". Mr. Cottle responded that decedent owed him $50.00 or $75.00 and that "[n]o body takes
food out of [his] mouth." N.T. 10/22/2013 at 151. Mr. Cottle also indicated to Mr. Smith, and Ms.
Cottle on a separate occasion, that he was limping because he hadbeen stabbed. Id. cit 152, 190. Ms.
Cottle testified that later that evening she visited defendant in West Philadelphia and saw bums on
his hand.face and ear, and that some of his hair was burnt. Id. at 187; 221-22. When Ms. Cottle
I
confronted defendant and asked him about the origin of the burns, he replied "don't worry about it."
Id. at 188. On January 1!4, 2007, at approximately 10:48 a.m. defendant was admitted to Mercy
Fitzgerald Hospital whe~e he was treated for second-degree burns sustained to his right hand,
extending to his wrist and forearm area. Id. at 94-96.5
Defendant was not seen in the area of the 2400 block of North Patton Street for the next
several months. On March 28, 2.007 Officer Christopher Hulmes, while dressed in plain clothes and
:
working undercover .narcotics in North Philadelphia, observed defendant approach Christopher
!
!
Cottle in a public park. lv.'T. 10/23/20 l 3at 151-15 3. The two engaged in a conversation, and Mr.
Cottle then removed an pbject from his pocket, unraveled a cigar, poured its contents out and
emptied it into the cigar ,~rrapper. Id. Defendant and Mr. Cottle conversed for approximately 5-1 O
I
4
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
minutes, while sharing the lit cigar back and forth. Id at 154. After they finished the cigar, the officer
observed defendant and Mr. Cottlewalk in a southbound direction along North Patton Street to the
area of 2428 North Patton Street. Id. at I 55. Mr. Cottle then attempted to enter the premises, while
defendant stood beside him at the front door. Id.
Fire Marshal Bordes Ramseur testified as an expert in the field of the cause and origin of
fires, and offered his opinions to a reasonable degree of scientific and professional certainty. N. T.
10/22/2013 at 36. Oi1 Saturday morning, January 13, 2014, at 10:24 a.m., after being dispatched to
the scene, Fire Marshal Ramseur observed debris from the interior of the dwelling scattered about the
street and on the sidewalk. Id. at 47. He testified based. 011 his training and experience, that the
scattered debris was a clear indicator that an explosion had occurred. Id Upon entering what
remained of property structure, the canine accelerant detection dog that accompanied him alerted to
several locations on the first floor. Id. at 44. Several samples were collected from those locations and
submitted to the criminalistics laboratory. Id. Fire Marshal Ramseur testified that the fire was
I
intentionally set and was incendiary in origin. Id at 45-46. Fire Marshal Ramseur's opinions were
. .
based on personal observations of the fire scene, samples that were collected and tested, together
i
with his training and experience, Id at 46. He explained that an incendiary fire requires human
involvement and thus concluded that someone intentionally applied an open flame to a combustible,
]
flammable or ignitable liquid causing the explosion and subsequent fire at 2421 North Patton Street.
Id. The criminalistics report revealed that the collected samples contained gasoline and a heavy
'
petroleum distillate such ~s kerosene, diesel fuel or some charcoal starters. Id at 81.
Fire Marshal Ramseurfurther opined that due to the magnitude of the explosion, there was a
delay between the time the ignitable liquid was poured throughout the first floor and the application
5
Defendant reported to hospita:l personnel.that his injuries were sustained on January 13, 2007 as a result of.a grilling
5
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
of the open flame. Id. at 4 7. He explained that the vapors had time to emanate from the ignitable
liquid and rise to such a level that the violent explosion occurred upon contact with the heat source
somewhere around the vestibule area, causing extensive heat and smoke damage to the first and
second floors. Id. at 48-49, 63. Following common practice and accepted methodology, Fire Marshal
Ramseur examined the property's utilities and excluded the basement's electrical box and gas meter
or any related teaks, as potential ignitable sources of the vapor explosion. Id. at 60~62. In fact, Fire
Marshall Ramseur noted that the electrical box was intact and in good shape, and the gas meter was
also intact with a lock on it, indicating that the property did not have gas service at the time of the
explosion. Id. at 61. Fire Marshal Ramseur further testified, based on his training and experience,
that the person who started the fire by applying an open flame to an ignitable source would have
sustained second to third degree burns. Id at 92-93. The fire marshal's testimony concluded with
him reviewing defendant' s Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital medical record and testifying to a reasonable
degree of scientific and professional certainty, that defendant's injuries were consistent with those
that a person would sustain by applying an open flame to an area where vapors accumulated from an
ignitable source. Id. at 9?,
Dr. Samuel Guilino, Chief Medical Examiner, testified as the Commonwealth's expert in the
field of forensic pathology after reviewing autopsy photographs and a report prepared by Dr. Preston,
now retired, who performed the autopsy on decedent's body in 2007. N. T. 10/23/2013 at 11. Dr.
Guilino concluded to a reasonable degree.of medical certainty that decedent's death was caused by
i
multiple stab wounds whichresulted in blood loss, and that.the mannerof death was homicide. Id. at
13, 21. During the autopsyI it was observed that decedent's body, which had been burned and charred
by the fire, also had a number of stab wounds. Id. at 15. Decedent's clothing was severely burned and
accident with lighter fluid. Id.! at 109-10.
6
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
charred; all that remained were portions of a charred belt, a pair of underpants, a shirt and sweater.
Id. at 15. The corresponding holes in decedent's clothes led Dr. Guilino to opine that decedent was
wearing the clothing when he was stabbed. Id. at 15. As a result. of the burning and charring of
decedent's skin, the medical examiner was unable to conclusively determine what object caused the
stab wounds. Id at 18.
Dr. Guilino, however, testified that the stab wounds appeared to be inflicted by a sharp object
with a single edge blade, such as a knife. Id. at 18. Decedent received multiple stab wounds to the
chest including five stab wounds through the skin in between several ribs and into the left lung,
causing· bleeding in the left lung chest cavity; five shallow stab wounds to the left side of decedent's
head around his ear; a stab wound to the lower right of decedent's jaw which went deep. enough to
strike decedent's carotid artery and the left internal jugular vein, causing significant bleeding; and
one stab wound to the shoulder and back which struck the right lung and caused bleeding into the
right lung chest cavity. Id. at 18-19. Decedent
also suffered from thermal heat bums to the right side
i
of his torso, which was pressed against the floor and protected from the fire, and the remaining
!
approximately70% ofhi~. body was charred and blackened :from burns. Id. at 21, 23-24. The absence
!
of soot and carbon monoxide in decedent's trachea evidenced that he had not inhaled any smoke and
!
led br. Guilino to opine that decedent was already dead when the fire occurred, Id at 22. Decedent's
toxicology report revealed that he had taken cocaine recently prior to his death and that he was a
habitual cocaine. user. u: at 32.
'
I
i
Forensic Scientist Terrance Lewis testified as the Commonwealth's expert in the field of
i
DNA analysis and examination, and offered his opinions to a reasonable degree of scientific
I
certainty. Id . at 46. He concluded that the fire destroyed all DNA and fingerprint evidence by burning
offblood residue and skin tissue. Id. He also concluded that the fire, combined with the water used
7
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
by the fire department to extinguish it, further-hindered-recovery of any physical evidence. Id. Thus,
no evidence was recovered linking defendant or any other person to the property, id. at 48, 58.
Forensic Scientist Ryan Gallagher testified as the Commonwealth's expert in the field of'identifying
biological material and ignitable liquids and concluded to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty
that all samples submitted contained gasoline with a heavy petroleum distillate.6 Id at 87. Forensic
Scientist Gallagher opined that the evidence of both substances was likely due to a container being
used that possessed one liquid and once empty was filled from the second liquid, with remnants of
the first liquid still contained therein. Id. at 89.
III.STAT~MENT OF MATTERS COl\1PLAINEJJOF ON APPEAL
In accordance with PA. R.APP. PROC. 1925 (b), defendant raised the following issues in his
Statement of Matters Complained of on Appeal."
1. The court! erred when it denied defendant's Motion for Directed Verdict.
2. The evidence is insufficient to sustain the verdicts of guilt.for arson and conspiracy to
commit arson, where there was no evidence of testimony presented regarding a
conspiratorial relationship between defendant and either of the codefendants. There
was no evidence presented to support an agreement, nor overt actions in furtherance
of the conspiracy, nor defendant's presence or participation at or around the scene.
3. The evidence is against the weight of the verdict where it is undisputed that Brandon
and Christopher Cottle, were convicted of these crimes, and neither person implicated
defendanti as an accomplice, conspirator, or other participant. ·
4. The evidence is insufficient to sustain the verdict where there is no evidence to
connectdefendant with the crime scene or the crime. The evidence presented at trial
consisted solely .of Lasheena Cattle's testimony that she saw burns on Defendant.
Said bums were not corroborated by any medical records and said statements were
repudiated at trial.
5. The verdict is against the weight of the evidence where there is no physical or
circumstantial evidence connecting defendant to the scene.
6
Such as kerosene, diesel fuel.and some charcoal starters. N.T. 10/23/14 at 88.
7
The statement below was taken verbatim from defendant's filed Statement of Errors.
8
Commonwealth v, Rick.Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
6. The evidence is insufficient to sustain the verdict where there was no testimony
. regarding the actual ignition source of the fire, including either the open flame, and/
or a definitive explanation of the ignitable fluids which actually caused the fire.
7. The evidence is insufficient to sustain the verdict where the medical records were
inconsistent with injuries attendant to an explosion. Defendant injuries were
inconsistent with the testimony of the Fire Marshalllsic], and any connections
between defendant injuries in[sic] the crime scene were speculative at best.
8. The verdict is against the weight of the evidence where witness testimony and
observations were based primarily on speculation, surmise and conjecture.
9. The evidence is insufficient to sustain the verdict where-alleged eyewitnesses gave
unreliable testimony, and testified to lack of memory, lack of familiarity, and were
incapable of making identifications at the time of their interviews, in subsequent
police identifications or at trial.
10. The verdict is against the weight of the evidence where the description of the second
assailant is inconsistent with defendant's appearance, and the maker of said statement
was incapable of identifying defendant during his statement or in court.
11. The verdict is against the weight of the evidence where there was no testimony
regarding] any motive, intent, or physical presence on the scene for defendant's
involvement in these crimes.
I
12. The court erroneously admitted improper testimony from Fire Marshal Bordes
I
Ramseur. Said erroneous testimony included improper medical expert testimony, and
speculative testimony regarding injuries sustained by anyone in the vicinity of the
explosion) and the presence of blood in or around the crime scene.
I
13. The court; erred when it allowed testimony regarding Christopher Cottle and
Defendant' s prior act when apprehended by police after smoking a "blunt," and in
showing the jury defendant's arrest photograph. Said evidence was cumulative and .
unduly ptJjudicial and could not properly by [sic] be cured by a limiting instruction.
I
14. The evidence is insufficient to sustain the convictions where there was no testimony
regarding I the reckless endangerment of other people, no testimony on any
participant' s knowledge of whether anyone wasat home at the time of the explosion,
or any cotection to defendant's involvement in the same.
IV.DISCUSSION
Defendant raises fou~een alleged errors in his statement of matters complained of on appeal. The
individual errors howevef address four overall claims=-motion for directed verdict, sufficiency of the
evidence, weight of the eyidence and admission of testimony-and will be addressed accordingly.
! 9
Commonwealth v, Rick Hughe~
!
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
A. Motion for a Directed Verdict
Defendant first claims that "[t]he court erred when it denied [his] Motion for Directed
Verdict. "8 Statement of Errors ~ 1. In reviewing the trial court' s denial of defendant's motion for
judgment of acquittal, the Superior Court "must consider whether the evidence was sufficient to
uphold the verdict of the trialcourt," Commonwealth v. McFadden, 850 A.2d 1290, 1292-93 (Pa.
Super. 2004). "A defendant may challenge the sufficiency of the evidence to sustain a conviction
[ through] a motion for judgment of acquittal at the close of the Commonwealth's case-in-chief." PA.
R. CRJM. PROC. 606. "A motion for judgment of acquittal challenges the sufficiency of the evidence
to sustain a conviction; on a particular charge, and is .granted only in cases in which the
'
Commonwealth has faile~ to carry its burden regarding.that charge." Commonwealth v. Emanuel, 86
A.3d 892, 894 (Pa. Supe}. 2o-14), appeal denied, 95 A.3d 276 (Pa. 2014).
I
Defendant's sole] argument in support of a motion for judgment of acquittal was that the
I
I
Commonwealth failed tJI produce any direct evidence, particularly
.
any eyewitness testimony that
I
defendant committed arson or conspired to conunit arson. N. T. 10/24/2013 at 58-61 (emphasis
I
added). It is however wel!l established that "[t)he Commonwealth may sustain its burden of proving
every element of the cri~e beyond a reasonable doubt by means of wholly circumstantial evidence."
!
I
Commonwealth v. Hunter, 768 A.2d 1136, 1141-42 (Pc1.. Super. 2001) (emphasis added). Thus, it was
i
for the jury to decide f~om the evidence presented during trial, whether the Commonwealth's
!
evidence" proved its cas9 beyond a reasonable doubt. N. T. 10/24/2013 at 65. As neither direct nor
i
eyewitness testimony is ~equired to meet the Commonwealth's burden of proof, this court properly
i
I
denied defendant's motion for judgment of acquittal.
l
8
Defendant's "inadvertent uJe of the phrase "Directed Verdict" when "motion for judgment of acquittal" is now
appropriate will not affect an btherwise valid sufficiency challenge. PA. R.CRIM. PROC. 606,
I
10
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
I
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
B. Sufficiency of the Evidence
As stated above, defendant has raised several sufficiency of the evidence claims. For the
following reasons, each claim lacks merit.
"In considering a challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence, the Court must decide whether
the evidence at trial, viewed in the light most favorable to the Commonwealth, together with all
reasonable inferences there from, could enable the fact-finder to find every element of the crimes
charged beyond a reasonable doubt." Commonwealth v. Walsh, 36 A.3d 613, 618 (Pa. Super. 2012)
(citations omitted). "In assessing the sufficiency of evidence, a reviewing court may not weigh the
evidence and substitute its ownjudgment for that of the fact-finder, who is free to believe all, part, or
! .
none of the evidence." Commonwealth v. Ramtahal, 33 A.3d 602, 607 (Pa; 2011). "The facts and.
'
circumstances establishe1 by the Commonwealth need not preclude every possibility of innocence."
l
Commonwealth v. DiStefiClno, 782 A.2d 574, 582 (Pa. Super. 2001), appeal denied, 806 A.2d.858
(Pa. 2002). "Any doubts Jegarding a defendant's guilt may be resolved by the fact-finder unless the
l I.
evidence is so weak and inconclusive that as a matter of law no probability of fact may be drawn
!
. from the combined circ:u~nstances." Commonwealthv. Cassidy, 668· A.2d 1143, 1144 (Pa. Super.
j
1995); appeal denied, 68~ A.2d 176 (Pa. 1996) (citation omitted). "The Commonwealth may sustain
. l
l
its burden of proving every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt by means of wholly
I
circumstantial evidence . '! Id. "Moreover, in applying the above test, the entire record. must be
evaluated and all evidencJ actually received must be considered." Commonwealth v. Muniz, 5 A. 3d
l
345, 348 (Pa. Super. 20109, appeal denied, 19 A.3d 1050 (Pa. 201 i) (citation omitted). Finally, "fi]f
I
the record contains support for the verdict, it may not be disturbed." Commonwealth v. Adams, 882
i
i
A.2d 496, 499 (Pa. Super! 2005) (citation omitted).
I
I
i .
9
See infra Parts B-C.
11
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughe{
!
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
First, defendant: challenges his convictions for arson and conspiracy to commit arson.
Specifically, defendant claims that"[ t]he evidence [was] insufficient to sustain the verdicts for arson
and conspiracy to commit arson, where there was no evidence of testimony presented regarding a
conspiratorial relationship between defendant and either ofthe codefendants." Statement of Errors if
2. This claim is without merit,
To sustain a conviction for arson, a felony of the first degree, the Commonwealth must
establish that defendant ','intentionally starts a fire or causes an explosion, or aids [or] counsels ...
another to cause a fire = explosion, whether 011 his own property or on that of another ... thereby
recklessly plac[ing] another person in danger of death or bodily injury ... " 18 PA. CONS. STAT. ANN.
§ 3301 (a)(l)(i). Therefore, "a conviction for arson requires the establishment of three elements: (1)
'
that there was a fire; (2) tat it was of'incendiary origin; and (3) that defendant was the guilty party."
Commonwealth v. Gallor1ay, 448 A.2d 568, 571 (Pa. Super. 1982). "Arson may be proved (purely]
I .
. by circumstantial evidenr, .. [where] the circumstances proved reasonably and naturally justify an
inference of the guilt ofjthe accused, and [the] volume and quality overcome the presumption of
I
innocence and satisfy thJjury of the [defendant's] guilt beyond a reasonable doubt." Commonwealth
!
i
v. Wisneski, 257 A.2d 62~, 626 (Pa. Super, 1969) (citations omitted). Circumstantial evidence, even
I
if not overwhelming, is sufficient to establish proof of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Commonwealthv. DiNic~la, 5 03 Pa. 90, 96 ( 1983) (quoting Commonwealth v. Nasuti, 3 85 Pa. 4 3 6,
I
444, 123 A.2d 435, 438 (1956)).
Here, there was sufficient evidence to support the jury's guilty 'verdict beyond a reasonable
;
l
doubt. First, there is no question as to whether there was a fire, given the explosion coupled with
!
decedent's charred bodYi arid the burnt debris found on the sidewalk and in the interior of the
I
property. Second, Fire ~arshal Ramseur testified as an expert that the fire was incendiary in origin
Il
12
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
E\11d resulted from application of an open flame to an ignitable liquid. The investigation revealed that
human ignition of the accelerant was delayed long enough to allow ignitable vapors to accumulate
and result in a violent explosion and fire. Third, the fact that defendant was on the crime scene
before and immediately after the fire and received second-degree bums on the same day of the arson,
as. observed by Ms. Cottle and corroborated by the Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital medical report,
conclusively established! that Rick Hughes was the guilty party. Indeed, defendant exited the crime
scene in the company ofjone of Mr. Brigman'skillers. Finally, despite the discrepancies regarding
the location and extent of the burns sustained by defendant, the volume and quality of the evidence
'!
proved.defendant's guil~ beyond a reasonable doubt.
'i
Next, defendantlchallenges the sufficiency of the evidence to sustain his conviction for
I
conspiracy to commit ~·son. He contends that "[tjhere was no evidence presented to support an
agreement, nor overt ac{ions in furtherance of the conspiracy, nor presence or participation at or
around the scene." Statement of Errors 12. This claim is also without merit. To sustain a conviction
for criminal conspiracy, ~he Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that defendant
~ l
; !
(1) entered into an agreement with another person or persons to commit or aid in a criminal act (2)
i
with a shared criminal ij1tent and that (3) an overt act was done in furtherance ofthe conspiracy.
Commonwealth v. John Ion, 920 A.2d 873, 878 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2007), rev'd, 611 Pa. 381 (2011)
1
!
(citations omitted). It is well settled that "[a]n agreement can be inferred from a variety of
circumstances including' but not limited to, the relation between the parties, knowledge of and
i
participation in the Crim~, and the circumstances and conduct of the parties surrounding the criminal
episode." Commonwealih v. Devine, 26 A.3d 1139, 1147 (Pa. Super. 2011) (emphasis added).
I
Prior to the morning of the fire, defendant had visited and slept over at the Cottle residence
many times, undoubtedly establishing a relationship with the brothers of his child's mother,
13
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughks
!
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
Lasheena Cottle. The relationship between defendant and Christopher Cottle was further evidenced
when Officer Hulmes observed them in a park, conversing while cordially sharing a lit cigar, prior to
walking to the Cottle residence together. Moreover, Ms. Cottle specifically testified that defendant
I
had slept over at the Cottle residence the night before the arson, .and was seen there minutes before
i
the explosion, however, heithcr he nor the brothers were inside the Cottle residence at the time ofthe
explosion.
Indeed, defendant was seen running away from the arson scene with one of decedent's killers
'
immediately after the explosion and fire. And, as mentioned above, he was treated the next day for
I
I
second-degree burns. Fiilially,
I
it is without question that the clearest overt action of a conspiracy to
i
commit a crime is the actual commission of the crime itself. Here, the jury properly found that the
I
evidence presented at tri~l was more than sufficient to prove the formation of a criminal agreement, a
!
i
shared criminal intent aid an overt act.
Defendant's second sufficiency claim is that "[tjhe evidence is insufficient to sustain the
\
verdict where there is no jevidence to connect defendant with the crime scene or the crime [because]
[t]he evidence presented at trial consisted solely of Lasheena Cotti e's testimony that she saw burns
I
on Defendant." Statement of Errors 1 4. Defendant further alleges that "said burns were not
'
j .
corroborated by any medical records and said statements were repudiated at trial." Defendant's claim
i
!
lacks merit and must fa~l. Ms. Cottle's testimony establishing defendant's presence on the 2400
)
block of North Patton Streetfhe morning of the explosion, coupled with Mr. Smith's testimony that
I
he observed defendant 1ftmning from decedent's home immediately after the explosion, clearly
II .
connect defendant to th¢ crime scene and the crime. Furthermore, it is undisputed that medical
. i
records were introducedjinto evidencewhich established that on January 14, 2007, defendant was
I
admitted to Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital and treated for second-degree burns sustained to his right
!I
14
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
\
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
J •
hand, extending to his wrist and forearm area, which he reported receiving on January 13, 2007. N T.
!
10/24/13 at 109-10. As t,ndicated above, the volume and quality of the Commonwealth's evidence
established defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
I
l
Defendant's thirq sufficiency claim is that "[t]he evidence-is insufficient to sustain the verdict
'
\
where there was no testimony regarding the actual ignition source of the fire, including either the
I
open flame, and/ or a definitive explanation of the ignitable fluids which actuallycaused the fire."
I
Statement of Errors ~ 6 (imphasis added). Defendant> s claim must fail. As stated above, the law does
I j
not require direct eviden;ce of a crime to reach a guilty verdict beyond a reasonable doubt. In fact,
!
neither the arson statute 1tor the case law requires that the Commonwealth prove the "actual" ignition
source of the fire. Fire M~·shal Ramseur concluded that the fire was intentionally set when someone
!
applied an open flame ti ;
a combustible, flammable or ignitable liquid. Fire Marshal Ramseur's
testimony, based on his t~aining·and experience, as corroborated by the criminalistics report, was a
!
more than sufficient explanation for the cause of the fire.
t
fomt1 sufficiency claim is that "[tjhe evidence Is insufficient
i
Defendant's to sustain the
verdict where the mectidI! records were inconsistent with injuries attendant to an explosion[,] ...
defendant['s] injuries ~ere inconsistent with the testimony of the Fire Marshall], and any
connections between de~endant['s] injuries [and] the crime scene were speculative at best."
1I
Statement of Errors~ 7. his claim is meritless. Fire Marshal Ramseur unequivocally testified that
. i .
the person who started ~he fire by applying an open flame to an ignitable source would have
l
sustained second to third ~egree bums. Defendant was admitted to Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital where
he was treated for second-degree burns sustained to his right hand, extending to his wrist and
I
forearm. Basedon his traihing and experience, after examining defendant's medical bum record, the
!
Fire Marshal concluded I to a reasonable degree of scientific and professional certainty that
15
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughe~
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
!
I
defendant's injuries were consistent with injuries that a person would sustain by applying an open
i
flame to vapors that accumulated from an ignitable source. Thus, the evidence is more than sufficient
to sustain the verdict.
Defendant'sflfth!sujJicien.cy claim is that "[tjhe.evidence is insufficient to sustain the verdict
i
where alleged eyewitne~ses gave unreliable testimony, and testified to lack of memory, lack of
I
. i
familiarity, and [were] !incapable of making identifications at the time of their interviews, in
subsequent police identifications or at trial." Statement of Errors~ 9. "A witness may testify to a
I .
matter only if evidence ts introduced sufficient to support a finding that the witness has personal
i
knowledge of the matt~r." PA.· R.Evm. 602. "Personal or firsthand knowledge is a universal
I
requirement of the law of evidence." PA. R.Evrn. 602 cmt, Here, a neighbor, David Smith, testified
I
that immediately after the explosion, he saw Christopher Cottle running with a limp from the
l
property along with another male unequivocally identified as "Lasheena Cottle's boyfriend." N. T.
!
l 0/22/13 at 140-141. Mr.\ Smith's in court testimony was consistent with his written statement given
to police on February 2J, 2007, the month following the arson. In spite of an injury sustained in
I
2010, which affected Mr!I Smith's memory, the jury evidently credited his testimony. When viewed
in 'the light of Commonwealth's other evidence, the jury properly found Mr. Smith's testimony
sufficient to establish p~oof of defendant? s identity. Indeed, it was for the jury to determine
credibility and resolve is$l1es of fact.
I
Finally, 'defendant's 8iixth sufficiency claim is that "[t]he evidence is insufficient to sustain the
!
convictions where there \,\las no testimony regarding the reckless endangerment of other people, no
I
testimony on any participant's knowledge of whether anyone was at home at the time of the
\
explosion, or any connec~ion to defendant's involvement in-the same. Statement of Errors~ l 4. "A
person commits a misdemeanor of the second-degree if he recklessly engages in conduct which
16
Commonwealth v. RickHugh4·
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
I
places or may place another person in danger of death or serious bodily injury." 18 PA. CONS. STAT.
ANN.§ 2705. A crime i$ done recklessly when there "is a conscious disregard of a known risk of
death or great bodily harm to another person." Commonwealth v. Cottam, 616 A.2d 988, 1004
i
'
(1992). It appears defendant is arguing that there was insufficient evidence that he was aware that
I
setting ablaze a row house on a residential block would endanger other people. This claim is
perplexing and meritless, It is without question that before setting the fire, defendant was aware and
consciously disregarded the known risk of death and great bodily harm he created for the residents of
I
the 2400 block of North Patton Street.when he ignitedthe fire-in an attempt to cover up the murder
1
!
of Joseph Brigman.
For the reasons stated above, it is clear that the evidence was sufficient for the jury to find
\
defendant guilty of arso~, recklessly endangering another person, and conspiracy to commit arson.
!
'
C. Weight otI the Evidence
1
As stated above, defendant has also raised. several weight of the evidence claims. For the
I
following reasons, each Maim lacks merit.
!
In considering a clain\I that the trial court erred in refusing to find a verdict against the weight of
the evidence, "appellate r~view is limited to whether the trial court palpably abused its discretion in
I
ruling on the weight clai~n." Commonwealtn v. Champney, 832 A.2d 40J, 408 (Pa. 2003) (citing
Commonwealth v. Tharp,! 830 A.2.d 519, 528 (Pa. 2003)). It is well-established that a new trial may
I
only be granted by the triJl court where the verdict was "so contrary to the weight of the evidence as
t
to shock one's sense ofju1tice." Commonwealth v. Rossetti,.863 A.2d 1185, 1191 (Pa. Super. 2004),
I
appeal denied, 878 A.2d $64 (Pa. 2005) (citation omitted). Moreover, "credibility determinations
!
i
are solely within the province of the fact-finder, and an appellate court may not reweigh the evidence
and substitute its judgme1it for that of the finder of fact." Commonwealth v. Hanible, 836 A.2d 36,
17
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughe~
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
40 (Pa. 2003).
Defendant's first weight claim is that "[t]he evidence is against the weight of the verdict where it
is undisputed that· Brandon and Christopher Cottle were convicted of these crimes, and neither
person implicated defendant as an accomplice, conspirator, or other participant." Statement of Errors
~ 3. This claim is without merit. The Superior Court has indicated that "the path of prosecution, or
non-prosecution, of a defendant's alleged co-conspiratorts) is irrelevant as to the prosecution of the
defendant."Commonwealth v. Fremd, 860 A.2d 515, 521 (Pa. Super. 2004). Thus, the conviction of
two co-conspirators cloe.s not by any means· negate. the guil! of a third, fourth or even fifth co-
conspirator. Here the jury properly weighedthe evidence presented at trial, as detailed above, and
found it sufficient to prove defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In light of the foregoing, no
reasonable person could conclude that said verdict was so contrary to the weight of the evidence as to
shock one's sense of justice.
Defendant's second weight claim is that "[t]he verdict is against the weight of the evidence
where there is no physical or circumstantial evidence connecting defendant to the scene." Statement
of Errol's if 5. This claim is also without merit. As discussed above, the evidence clearly placed
defendant at the crime scene at the time of the arson. Defendant was present at the Cottle residence
across the street from the scene of the arson approximately fifteen (15) minutes prior to fleeing the
arson scene immediately. !after the explosion and fire. Defendant was observed with burns on his
hands, arms and face on.the day of the arson, and medical records reflecting burn treatment the day
fo llowing the arson were admitted into evidence. Moreover, defendant's bums were diagnosed by his
treating physician as second-degree, the exact type Fire Marshal Ramseur testified would have been
sustained by the arsonist. i-Iere, defendant has simply misstated the evidence in art attempt to raise a
nonexistent weight claim.
18
Commonwealth v. · Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
Defendant's third weight claim is that "[t]he verdict is against the weight of the evidence
where witness testimony and observations were based primarily on speculation, surmise and
conjecture." Statement of Errors ~ 8. This claim is also without merit. Indeed, it is a "fundamental
principle that a verdict of guilt may not be based upon surmise or conjecture." Commonwealth v.
Farquharson, 467 Pa. 50, 60 (1976) ( citations omitted). In fact "where evidence offered to support a
verdict of guilt is so unreliable and/or contradictory as to make any verdict based thereon pure
conjecture, a jury may not be permitted to return such a finding." Id Therefore, only where "[tjhe
record clearly established that the testimony of that witness was so contradictory as to render it
incapable of'reasonable reconciliation" must a verdict of guilty foil. Id. It must however be noted that
"while a conviction cannot be supported by mere suspicion and conjecture, the Commonwealth need
not establish guilt to a mathematical certainty." Commonwealth v. Badman, 580 A.2d 1367, 1371
(Pa. Super. 1990). Here, for the reasons stated above, the evidence presented through witness
testimony fully supported the verdict of guilt. The lay witnesses testimony consisted of facts drawn
from their own personal observations and firsthand knowledge. In like manner, each expert witness
testified to a reasonable degree of scientific or medical or professional certainty and based their
opinions on evidence of the type experts may rely.
Defendant's fourth weight claim is that "[tjhe verdict is against the weight of the evidence
where the description of the second assailant is inconsistent with defendant's appearance, and the
maker of said statement was incapable of identifying defendant during his statement or in court."
Statement of Errors , 10. Assuming defendant is referring to the testimony and prior statement of
David Smith, this claim must also fail. As indicated above it is clear that the evidence supports the
jury's conclusion that defendant was the second man running from the scene of the crime and a co-
conspirator to the arson and related offenses. Defendant was observed by the witness to be a frequent
19
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
visitor of Lasheena Cottle, his girlfriend, on multiple occasions before the fire. A few weeks after
Mr. Smith saw defendant and Mr. Cottle leaving decedent's house immediately after the explosion,
he provided a description to detectives in a written statement" and unequivocally identified this
"second person" as Ms. Cottle's boyfriend. Any variations in the description of defendant and his
appearance were an issue for resolution by the jury.
Defendant's fiflh weight claim is that "[tjhe verdict is against the weight of the evidence
where there was no testimony regarding any motive, intent, or physical presence on the scene for
defendant's involvement in these crimes." Statement of Errors ir 11. This claim is also without merit.
It is well settled that in criminal proceedings, there is no requirement that the Commonwealth prove
motive. Commonwealth v, Nasuti, 119 A.2d 642, 644 (Pa. Super. 1956), aff'd, 385 Pa. 436 (1956) .
(citations omitted). Further, when determining whether evidence of intent was "so contrary to the
weight of the evidence as to shock one's sense of justice," Rossetti, 863 A.2d at 1191, it is without
question that "the trier of fact [is] free to believe all, part, or none. of the evidence [presented at
trial]." Commonwealth v. Smith, 398 A2d 948 (1979). "It is [also] well settled that this necessary
criminal intent may be inferred from facts and circumstances which are of such a nature as to prove a
defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt." Commonwealth v. White, 335 A.2d 436, 440 (Pa.
Super. 1975). Drawing the logical inferences from the testimony of Ms. Cottle, who observed
defendant's medically diagnosed second-degree burns, the exact type Fire Marshal Ramseur
described the arsonist would sustain, the jury properly concluded that defendant possessed the
requisite intent to "start a fire or cause an explosion" as required under Pennsylvania law.
It was for the jury to resolve any doubts regarding defendant's guilt, thus their conclusion that
he was guilty beyond a reasonable doubt must stand. Viewed in the light most favorable to the
10
Mr; Smith perceived "Lasheena Cottle's boyfriend" as "Jamaican, I think, and ... about 5'7, skinny build, hair twisted
20
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
Conunonwealth as the verdict winner, the record does not contain weak or inconclusive evidence but
it supports the jury's guilty verdicts in this case.
D. Admission of Testimony
Finally, defendant raises two evidentiary claims. For the following reasons, both claim lacks
merit.
On a challenge to a trial court's evidentiary ruling, [the Superior Court's] standard of review is
one of deference." Commonwealth v. Herb, 852 A.2d 356, 363 (Pa. Super. 2004). "The admission or
exclusion of evidence, including the admission of testimony from an expert witness, is within the
sound discretion of the trial court." Hawkey v. Peirsel, 869 A.2d 983, 989 (Pa. Super. 2005). "Thus
the Superior Court's standard of review is very narrow; reversal may only occur upon a showing that
the trial court clearly abused its discretion or committed an error oflaw." Id. "An abuse of discretion
is not merely an error of judgment, but is rather the overriding or misapplication of the law, or the
exercise of judgment that is manifestly unreasonable . . . as shown by the evidence of record.
Commonwealth v. Cameron, 780 A.2d 688, 692 (Pa. Super. 2001)."
First, defendant claims that "[tjhe court erroneously admitted improper testimo~y from Fire
Marshal Bordes Ramseur [because] [sjaid erroneous testimony included improper medical expert
testimony, and speculative testimony regarding injuries sustained by anyone in the vicinity of the
explosion, and the presence ofblood in or around the crime scene." Statement of Errors ir 12. This
claim is also meritless. "Whether a witness has been properly qualified to give expert witness
testimony is vested in the discretion of the trial court." Wexler v. Hecht, 847 A.2d 95, 98 (Pa. Super.
2004), aff'd, 593 Pa. 118 (2007). "Expert testimony must be based on more than mere personal
belief ... [it] must be supported by reference to facts, testimony or empirical data." Snizavlch v.
up in little dreads." N. T. l 0/22/2013 at 158.
21
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
Rohm & Haas Co., 83 A.3d 191, 195 (Pa. Super. 2013), reargument denied (Feb. 3, 2014), appeal
denied, 96 A.3d 1029 (2014). fire Marshal Ramseur did not claim to offer opinion testimony as a
medical expert; he testified to a reasonable degree of scientific and professional certainty, based on
his training and experience as an expert in the field of the cause and origin of fires. After reviewing
defendant's medical record, he offered more than mere personal belief and as supported by the facts,
opined that defendant> s injuries were consistent with injuries that a person would sustain by applying
an open flame to a specific area where vapors accumulated from an ignitable source. This court
properly admitted the expert testimony of Fire Marshal Ramseur, and did not abuse its discretion in
doing so.
Second, defendant claims that "[tjhe court erred when it allowed testimony regarding Christopher
Cottle and [djefendant's prior act when apprehended by police after smoking a "blunt," and in
showing the jury defendant's attest photograph. Said evidence was cumulative and unduly
prejudicial and could not properly by [sic] be cured by limiting instruction." Statement of Errors if
13. This claim is unsound.
Evidence of a crime, wrong; or other act is not admissible to prove a person's
character ·in order to show that 011 a particular occasion the person acted in
accordance with the character ... This evidence may be admissible for another
purpose, such as proving motive, opportunity, intent, preparation, plan, knowledge,
identity, absence of mistake, or lack of accident. In a criminal case this evidence is
admissible only if the probative value ofthe evidence outweighs its potential for
unfair prejudice.
PA. R.Evm. 404. Here, defendant's contention is disingenuous. Officer Hulmes testimony gave
no indication to the jury that defendant was apprehended after the officer observed him and Mr.
Cottle smoking the lit cigar. This testimony was admitted in order to show the cordial relationship
between defendant and Mr. Brigman's killer. Additionally, a photograph of defendant shown to the
officer for identification purposes was briefly displayed to the jury.NT 10/23/14 at 156. This court
22
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes
Circulated 10/14/2015 10:50 AM
properly determined that the probative value of Officer Hulmes's testimony and the display of
defendant's photograph outweighed any potential for unfair prejudice. N.T. 10/23/14 at 134-142;
156. Therefore, the photograph was properly displayed and the testimony was properly admitted, not
as character evidence, but for the sole purpose of identifying defendant and proving the existence of
a cordial relationship between him and one of decedent's killers, Christopher Cottle.
As is the case here, absent overriding or misapplication of the law or the exercise of a judgment
that is manifestly unreasonable, this court's evidentiary rulings must stand.
V. CONCLUSION
For the aforementioned reasons, this court's judgment of sentence should be AFFIRMED.
BY THE COURT
December 3, 2014
23
Commonwealth v. Rick Hughes