State Of Washington, V John Michael Bale

Filed
Washington State
Court of Appeals
Division Two
February 22, 2017
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON
DIVISION II
STATE OF WASHINGTON, No. 48042-5-II
Respondent,
v.
JOHN MICHAEL BALE,
Consolidated With
Appellant.
In The Matter of the Personal Restraint No. 47569-3-II
Petition of
JOHN MICHAEL BALE,
UNPUBLISHED OPINION
Petitioner.
WORSWICK, P.J. — In this consolidated case comprising John M. Bale’s direct appeal and
personal restraint petition (PRP), Bale appeals his sentence following a remand for resentencing
and collaterally attacks his convictions for first degree assault. In his direct appeal, we hold that
(1) the sentencing court did not err in imposing a standard range sentence and (2) Bale cannot
show that defense counsel was ineffective. Additionally, none of the issues Bale raises in his
statement of additional grounds (SAG) are meritorious.
Regarding Bale’s PRP, we decline to review his arguments that his due process rights
were violated when he could not use the Kitsap County Jail’s law library, that there was
insufficient evidence to support his convictions for first degree assault, and that the trial court
erred in denying his motion for substitute counsel because these issues were resolved in his prior
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
appeal. We decline to consider Bale’s argument that we erred in failing to conduct a harmless
error analysis in reversing his conviction for possession of a stolen firearm because Bale did not
file a motion for reconsideration of that issue. We hold that (1) Bale’s due process rights were
not violated when the State filed an amended information, (2) Bale fails to show the prosecutor
committed misconduct or fails to show that he was prejudiced by the prosecutor’s conduct, (3)
Bale fails to show that he received ineffective assistance of counsel, (4) Bale fails to show that
witnesses committed perjury, (5) Bale fails to show that witnesses offered impermissible opinion
testimony, (6) Bale’s right to speedy arraignment was not violated, and (7) Bale’s right to a fair
appeal was not violated. Consequently, we affirm Bale’s sentence, deny his PRP, and waive
appellate costs.1
FACTS
A jury found Bale guilty of two counts of first degree assault, each with a firearm
sentencing enhancement, and one count of possession of a stolen firearm arising from Bale’s
altercation with two police officers. The trial court imposed a standard range sentence of 531
months of imprisonment. Bale appealed, and we reversed his possession of a stolen firearm
conviction for insufficient evidence and remanded for resentencing. State v. Bale, No. 44172-1
(Wash. Ct. App. Oct. 14, 2014) (unpublished), http://www.courts.was.gov/opinions, at 15. After
remand, but before the resentencing hearing, Bale filed his PRP.
1
Bale also argues that it is unconstitutional to require an indigent defendant to pay appellate
costs. We do not reach this constitutional question because the State has represented to us that it
will not seek such costs.
2
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
At resentencing, the State told the sentencing court that “[b]ecause these are serious
violent offenses under 9.94A, I believe it’s 589(1)(b), they run consecutive.” Verbatim Report of
Proceedings (VRP) (Aug. 21, 2015) at 4. Bale objected on his own behalf, arguing that the
sentencing court had the discretion to impose concurrent sentences. Alternatively, Bale’s
counsel argued for a low-end standard sentence. Bale’s counsel agreed that Bale’s first degree
assault convictions were convictions for serious violent offenses and that his sentences should
run consecutively as provided in RCW 9.94A.589.
Bale spoke on his own behalf and requested that he receive an exceptional sentence
downward because he “was not guilty of this . . . . [M]ere possession of a firearm doesn’t show
intent” and because “nothing happened nor was [his] intent to even hurt [the officers].” VRP
(Aug. 21, 2015) at 26, 28. The sentencing court denied his request, stating:
There aren’t any statutory mitigating factors, and for me to do an exceptional
[sentence] down would require me to make certain findings that statutory mitigating
factors exist. It’s not simply within the Court’s discretion. There has to be reasons
that are set out in the statute, and this isn’t one of them.
VRP (Aug. 21, 2015) at 28-29. The court ordered that Bale’s sentences for the two serious
violent offenses run consecutively for a total of 490 months of imprisonment.2 Bale appealed,
and we consolidated his direct appeal with his PRP.
2
The sentencing court ordered Bale to 227 months in confinement, the high end of the standard
range, on count I and 93 months in confinement, the low end of the standard range, on count II.
Both convictions included an additional 60-month firearm enhancement.
3
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
ANALYSIS
I. SENTENCING
Bale argues that the sentencing court erred in concluding that it did not have the authority
to impose an exceptional sentence downward on his convictions for two serious violent offenses.
We disagree.
We review a sentencing court’s decision to deny an exceptional sentence for abuse of
discretion. State v. McGill, 112 Wn. App. 95, 100, 47 P.3d 173 (2002). A court abuses its
discretion when it denies an exceptional sentence based on an incorrect belief that it is not
authorized to grant the sentence. State v. O’Dell, 183 Wn.2d 680, 696-97, 358 P.3d 359 (2015).
Generally, a sentencing court must impose a sentence within the standard range set by the
Sentencing Reform Act of 1981 (SRA). State v. Graham, 181 Wn.2d 878, 882, 337 P.3d 319(2014). The SRA sets standard-range sentences for multiple serious violent offenses in RCW
9.94A.589(1)(b). Under the SRA’s multiple offense policy, the standard range for two or more
serious violent offenses is consecutive sentences. RCW 9.94A.589(1)(b). However, RCW
9.94A.535(1) provides that a sentencing court may depart from the standard sentence range for
substantial and compelling reasons, and it may “impose an exceptional sentence below the
standard range if it finds that mitigating circumstances are established by a preponderance of the
evidence.” The court may order that multiple serious violent offenses run concurrently as an
exceptional sentence downward only if it finds mitigating circumstances that justify its departure
from the standard range. RCW 9.94A.535(1); In re Pers. Restraint of Mulholland, 161 Wn.2d
322, 329-31, 166 P.3d 677 (2007).
4
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
At resentencing, the State told the sentencing court that Bale’s sentences would run
consecutively under RCW 9.94A.589(1)(b). Bale argued that the sentencing court had discretion
to impose an exceptional sentence downward and order that his sentences run concurrently. Bale
also requested that he receive an exceptional sentence downward because he “was not guilty of
this . . . . [M]ere possession of a firearm doesn’t show intent” and because “nothing happened
nor was [his] intent to even hurt [the officers].” VRP (Aug. 21, 2015) at 26, 28.
The sentencing court denied Bale’s request, stating: “There aren’t any statutory
mitigating factors, and for me to do an exceptional down would require me to make certain
findings that statutory mitigating factors exist. It’s not simply within the Court’s discretion.”
VRP (Aug. 21, 2015) at 28. The court then ordered that Bale’s sentences for the two serious
violent offenses run consecutively for a total of 490 months in confinement.
Bale contends the sentencing court denied his request for an exceptional sentence
downward because of its mistaken belief that it did not have the statutory authority to grant his
request. However, the record does not support Bale’s contention. Here, the sentencing court
correctly stated that it did not have discretion to sentence Bale to an exceptional sentence without
mitigating factors and that no such factors supported departure from the standard sentence range.
Because the court determined that an exceptional sentence was not justified by any mitigating
circumstances, it was not authorized by the SRA to impose an exceptional sentence downward
and sentence Bale to concurrent sentences. Accordingly, the sentencing court’s denial of Bale’s
request for an exceptional sentence downward was not based on a mistaken belief that it lacked
5
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
statutory authority to grant his request. Therefore, the court did not abuse its discretion in
imposing a standard range sentence.
II. INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL
Bale next argues that his counsel was ineffective by failing to cite applicable case law
regarding the sentencing court’s authority to consider and impose an exceptional sentence
downward. We disagree.
The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution and article I, section 22 of the
Washington Constitution guarantee a criminal defendant the right to effective assistance of
counsel. State v. Grier, 171 Wn.2d 17, 32, 246 P.3d 1260 (2011). We review ineffective
assistance of counsel claims de novo. State v. Binh Thach, 126 Wn. App. 297, 319, 106 P.3d 782(2005).
To prevail on an ineffective assistance of counsel claim, the defendant must show that
defense counsel’s representation was deficient and that the deficient representation prejudiced
him. Grier, 171 Wn.2d at 32-33. Failure to establish either prong is fatal to an ineffective
assistance of counsel claim. Strickland v. Washington, 466 U.S. 668, 687, 104 S. Ct. 2052, 80 L.
Ed. 2d 674 (1984).
Counsel’s performance is deficient if it falls below an objective standard of
reasonableness, and there is “‘a strong presumption that counsel’s performance was
reasonable.’” Grier, 171 Wn.2d at 33 (quoting State v. Kyllo, 166 Wn.2d 856, 862, 215 P.3d 177(2009). Failure to cite controlling case law can constitute deficient performance. State v.
Hernandez-Hernandez, 104 Wn. App. 263, 266, 15 P.3d 719 (2001). To establish prejudice, a
6
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
defendant must show a reasonable probability that but for the deficient performance, the result of
the proceeding would have been different. Grier, 171 Wn.2d at 34.
At resentencing, Bale’s counsel agreed that Bale’s sentences for two serious violent
offenses should run consecutively under RCW 9.94A.589. Defense counsel argued that Bale
should receive the low end of the statutory range for his offenses because “[o]bviously, this is a
lot of time for his conduct.” VRP (Aug. 21, 2015) at 15.
Bale later spoke on his own behalf and requested that the sentencing court impose an
exceptional sentence downward because he did not intend to hurt the officers involved. The
sentencing court denied Bale’s request and imposed a sentence at the high end of the standard
range for one first degree assault conviction and a sentence at the low end of the standard range
for the other first degree assault conviction. The sentences were ordered to run consecutively.
To show prejudice here, Bale must show there is a reasonable probability that had
defense counsel cited controlling case law, the sentencing court would have imposed an
exceptional sentence downward. See Grier, 171 Wn.2d at 33. Bale’s argument fails for two
reasons. First, while Bale’s counsel did not direct the sentencing court’s attention to case law
regarding its authority to impose an exceptional sentence downward, the record shows the court
was aware of its authority to do so. The sentencing court did not impose an exceptional sentence
downward because it did not find mitigating factors, not because Bale’s counsel failed to cite
controlling law. Second, defense counsel asked that the sentencing court impose a low-end
sentence; it did not. Because the sentencing court rejected a low-end standard range sentence,
Bale cannot show that the court would not have imposed an exceptional sentence downward.
7
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
Bale fails to show that had his counsel cited to controlling case law and requested an exceptional
sentence downward, the sentencing court would have imposed the sentence. Therefore, Bale
cannot show that his counsel’s representation prejudiced him, and his claim fails.
III. APPELLATE COSTS
Bale also argues that it is unconstitutional to require an indigent defendant to pay
appellate costs and that we should decline to follow the procedure for obtaining and opposing
appellate costs as proscribed by Division One of this court in State v. Sinclair, 192 Wn. App.
380, 367 P.3d 612 (2016). The State has represented to us that it will not seek appellate costs.
Because the State will not be seeking costs, it is unnecessary for us to reach Bale’s constitutional
question. City of Seattle v. Williams, 128 Wn.2d 341, 347, 908 P.2d 359 (1995). Nonetheless,
we exercise our discretion and expressly waive appellate costs.
Under RCW 10.73.160(1), we may order adult offenders to pay appellate costs.
However, we have the discretion to waive appellate costs. RAP 14.2; Sinclair, 192 Wn. App. at
389-90.
The trial court found that Bale was indigent. We presume under RAP 15.2(f) that he
remains indigent “throughout the review” unless the trial court finds that his financial condition
has improved. Therefore, we waive appellate costs.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL GROUNDS
In his SAG, Bale raises several additional grounds for review. Bale claims (1) prejudicial
evidence was introduced at trial that poisoned the jury, (2) there was insufficient evidence to
support his convictions for first degree assault, (3) the State violated his right to a speedy trial,
8
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
(4) the county violated his due process rights by denying him access to the law library, (5) the
court violated his right to testify, (6) malicious prosecution, (7) ineffective assistance of counsel
at trial, (8) the State committed a Brady3 violation by failing to disclose witnesses’ statements,
and (9) his constitutional rights were violated because no minorities served on the jury.
Bale’s allegations that (1) there was insufficient evidence to support his convictions for
first degree assault, (2) the State violated his right to a speedy trial, and (3) the county violated
his due process rights by denying him access to the law library improperly attempt to relitigate
issues affirmed in his first direct appeal. “Once an issue is decided on appeal, it cannot be
reargued unless the decision in the prior appeal is clearly erroneous.” State v. Calhoun, 163 Wn.
App. 153, 168, 257 P.3d 693 (2011). Bale offers no argument that our prior decisions were
clearly erroneous, and we do not consider his claims.
Further, Bale’s additional allegations rely entirely on matters outside the record on
appeal,4 regardless of his attachment of such materials to his SAG. State v. Hecht, 179 Wn. App.
497, 511, 319 P.3d 836 (2014). Accordingly, Bale’s additional allegations cannot be considered
on direct appeal. State v. Alvarado, 164 Wn.2d 556, 569, 192 P.3d 345 (2008).
PERSONAL RESTRAINT PETITION
Bale makes numerous arguments in his PRP claiming that his first degree assault
convictions and sentence must be reversed. He claims that (1) the State violated his due process
3
Brady v. Maryland, 373 U.S. 83, 83 S. Ct. 1194, 10 L. Ed. 2d 215 (1963).
4
Bale’s direct appeal involves only his resentencing and not his prior trial.
9
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
rights when he could not use the Kitsap County Jail’s law library, insufficient evidence
supported his convictions, and the trial court erred in denying his motion to substitute counsel;
(2) we erred in failing to conduct a harmless error analysis in reversing his conviction for
possession of a stolen firearm; (3) the State violated his due process rights when it filed an
amended information; (4) the prosecutor committed misconduct; (5) he received ineffective
assistance of counsel; (6) witnesses committed perjury while testifying at trial; (7) witnesses
offered impermissible opinion testimony; (8) his right to speedy arraignment was violated; and
(9) his right to a fair appeal was violated.5 We disagree with these arguments and deny Bale’s
petition.
The petitioner in a PRP must first prove error by a preponderance of the evidence. In re
Pers. Restraint of Crow, 187 Wn. App. 414, 420-21, 349 P.3d 902 (2015). Then, if the petitioner
is able to show error, he must also prove prejudice, the degree of which depends on the type of
error shown. 187 Wn. App. at 421.
To obtain relief, the petitioner must show either constitutional or nonconstitutional error.
In re Pers. Restraint of Cook, 114 Wn.2d 802, 810-11, 792 P.2d 506 (1990). If the error is
constitutional, the petitioner must demonstrate that it resulted in actual and substantial prejudice.
In re Pers. Restraint of Woods, 154 Wn.2d 400, 409, 114 P.3d 607 (2005). “Actual and
substantial prejudice, which ‘must be determined in light of the totality of circumstances,’ exists
if the error ‘so infected petitioner’s entire trial that the resulting conviction violates due
5
Bale also argues the sentencing court erred in imposing a standard range sentence. We
addressed this issue in Bale’s direct appeal above and, accordingly, do not address it further.
10
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
process.’” Crow, 187 Wn. App. at 421 (quoting In re Pers. Restraint of Music, 104 Wn.2d 189,
191, 704 P.2d 144 (1985)). If the error is nonconstitutional, the petitioner must meet a stricter
standard and demonstrate that the error resulted in a fundamental defect which inherently
resulted in a complete miscarriage of justice. In re Pers. Restraint of Schreiber, 189 Wn. App.
110, 113, 357 P.3d 668 (2015).
The petitioner must support his claims of error with a statement of facts on which his
claim of unlawful restraint is based and the evidence available to support his factual allegations.
RAP 16.7(a)(2); In re Pers. Restraint of Williams, 111 Wn.2d 353, 365, 759 P.2d 436 (1988). In
addition, the petitioner must state with particularity facts that, if proven, would entitle him to
relief, and he must present evidence showing his factual allegations are based on more than
speculation and conjecture. In re Pers. Restraint of Rice, 118 Wn.2d 876, 886, 828 P.2d 1086,
cert. denied, 506 U.S. 958 (1992). A petitioner cannot rely on conclusory allegations. Cook,
114 Wn.2d at 813-14.
A personal restraint petitioner may not renew an issue that he raised and an appellate
court rejected on the merits in a direct appeal unless the interests of justice require relitigation of
that issue. Schreiber, 189 Wn. App. at 113. The interests of justice require relitigation where the
law has changed after the direct appeal or where some other justification exists for the
petitioner’s failure to have raised a critical argument in the prior appeal. In re Pers. Restraint of
Yates, 177 Wn.2d 1, 17, 296 P.3d 872 (2013).
If the petitioner fails to make a prima facie showing of either actual or substantial
prejudice or a fundamental defect, we deny the PRP. 177 Wn.2d at 17. If the petitioner makes
11
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
such a showing, but the record is not sufficient to determine the merits, we remand for a
reference hearing. 177 Wn.2d at 18. But if we are convinced that the petitioner has proven
actual and substantial prejudice or a fundamental defect, we grant the petition. 177 Wn.2d at 18.
I. MATTERS CONSIDERED IN BALE’S PRIOR APPEAL
Bale raises three issues we considered in his first direct appeal. He argues that his due
process rights were violated when he could not use the Kitsap County Jail’s law library after
obtaining a court order permitting him access, there was insufficient evidence to support his first
degree assault convictions, and the trial court erred in denying his motion for substitute counsel.
We considered these arguments on their merits and rejected them in Bale’s previous appeal.
Bale, No. 47172-1, slip op. at 6-7, 13. Bale does not argue or show that the interests of justice
require these issues’ relitigation. We decline to review these arguments.
II. APPELLATE ERROR
Bale also argues that we erred in failing to conduct a harmless error analysis in reversing
his conviction for possession of a stolen firearm. This argument fails.
By challenging our analysis in his first direct appeal, Bale’s argument here is essentially a
motion for reconsideration. RAP 12.4(b) provides that a party must file a motion for
reconsideration of a court of appeals’ decision no later than 20 days after the decision was made.
Accordingly, Bale’s argument is untimely, and his claim fails.
12
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
III. AMENDED INFORMATION
Bale also argues that his due process rights were violated when the State delayed filing an
amended information and suggests that the State’s delay amounts to prosecutorial misconduct.
This argument fails.
The State has discretion to decide whether to prosecute cases, but this discretion is not
unfettered. State v. Kenyon, 150 Wn. App. 826, 830, 208 P.3d 1291 (2009). A charge cannot be
filed unless it is supported by probable cause. State v. Korum, 157 Wn.2d 614, 664, 141 P.3d 13(2006) (Madsen, J., dissenting).
A criminal proceeding is commenced when the State files an initial information. CrR
2.1(a). CrR 2.1(d) provides that a trial court may permit “any information . . . to be amended at
any time before verdict or finding if substantial rights of the defendant are not prejudiced.” The
primary purpose of this rule is “to give notice to an accused of the nature of the crime that he or
she must be prepared to defend against.” State v. Kjorsvik, 117 Wn.2d 93, 101, 812 P.2d 86(1991).
Criminal proceedings against Bale commenced on July 30, 2012, when the State filed its
initial information charging first degree assault and felony possession of a firearm. On October
30, 2012, the State filed an amended information charging two counts of first degree assault with
special allegations and one count of felony possession of a firearm. The trial court arraigned
Bale on the amended information the same day, and trial began the next day.
Bale did not object to the filing of the amended information. Now, Bale’s only argument
regarding this issue is that he was prejudiced by the State’s filing of the amended information
13
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
because “his conduct clearly never [met] the requirements of another charge that was added.”
PRP at 6. However, Bale is incorrect. For a prosecutor to file a charge, the charged offense
must be supported by probable cause. Korum, 157 Wn.2d at 664. The jury returned a guilty
verdict on the additional first degree assault charge and returned special verdicts finding that
Bale was armed with a firearm during the commission of the first degree assaults. Because the
jury found Bale guilty, he is unable to show that the charges were not supported by probable
cause or that “his conduct clearly never [met] the requirements” of the new charges. PRP at 6.
Further, Bale baldly asserts without argument or authority that the State’s conduct in filing the
amended information amounts to prosecutorial misconduct. This claim fails.
IV. PROSECUTORIAL MISCONDUCT
Bale also argues the prosecutor committed misconduct by (a) making a motion for no
speaking objections, (b) asking an officer during direct examination about the protocols for use
of deadly force, (c) asking a testifying officer leading questions, (d) misstating the definition of
“intent,” and (e) stating in closing argument that Bale was guilty of first degree assault because
he intended to kill the officers.6 Bale’s arguments fail.
To prevail on a claim of prosecutorial misconduct, a petitioner must show that in the
context of the record and all the trial circumstances, the prosecutor’s conduct was improper and
prejudicial. State v. Thorgerson, 172 Wn.2d 438, 442, 258 P.3d 43 (2011). To show prejudice, a
6
Bale also argues the prosecutor committed misconduct by recommending that Bale’s sentences
run consecutively. As discussed in his direct appeal, sentences for multiple serious violent
offenses must run consecutively unless mitigating circumstances support an exceptional sentence
downward. Thus, the State’s recommendation was not improper.
14
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
petitioner must show a substantial likelihood that the misconduct affected the verdict. 172
Wn.2d at 442-43. If a petitioner fails to object to misconduct at trial, he waives the issue unless
he establishes the misconduct was so flagrant and ill-intentioned that it caused an enduring
prejudice that could not have been cured with an instruction to the jury. 172 Wn.2d at 443.
As an initial matter, Bale failed to object to the prosecutor’s purportedly improper actions
and statements. As a result, he must show that if the prosecutor committed misconduct, the
misconduct was so flagrant and ill-intentioned that its prejudicial effect could not be cured by an
instruction. 172 Wn.2d at 443.
A. Moving for No Speaking Objections
Bale argues it was improper for the prosecutor to move to prohibit speaking objections at
trial and that the prosecutor’s motion prejudiced him because of the complexity of his case.
Bale’s argument fails.
Speaking objections are neither prohibited nor authorized by Washington’s Rules of
Evidence. 5 WASHINGTON PRACTICE: EVIDENCE LAW AND PRACTICE § 103.8, at 52 (6th ed.
2016). Instead, the rules allow the trial court judge to determine the propriety of speaking
objections. 5 WASHINGTON PRACTICE: EVIDENCE LAW AND PRACTICE § 103.8, at 52 (6th ed.
2016). Accordingly, it was not improper for the prosecutor to file a motion requesting that no
speaking objections be made at trial. Therefore, the prosecutor did not commit misconduct, and
Bale’s claim fails.
B. Questioning Regarding Deadly Force
Bale argues the following exchange on direct examination was misconduct:
15
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
[PROSECUTOR]: Okay. Now, you’ve got him at gunpoint. He’s pulled a gun on
you. Why not just shoot him dead?
[OFFICER]: Because . . . [it] doesn’t meet the requirements for the use of deadly
force, at that point, because I have his weapon. . . .
[PROSECUTOR]: You talked about the protocol for using deadly force with
somebody.
Would there have been a different protocol in place at the initial point where
you took him to the ground, if you had your service revolver out?
[OFFICER]: Yes.
[PROSECUTOR]: And what would that have been?
[OFFICER]: That would have met the requirements for the use of deadly force.
PRP at Ex. R.
Bale fails to cite any authority that supports his contention that the prosecutor’s questions
were improper. Additionally, Bale does not argue or provide evidence showing why the
prosecutor’s questions were so flagrant and ill-intentioned as to warrant reversal. Because Bale
does not show how the prosecutor’s questions prejudiced him, and does not allege that any
potential prejudice could not be cured by an instruction, his claim fails.
C. Leading Questions
Bale argues the “[p]rosecutor had questioned the witness by leading the witness into
stating an answer of what was recovered.” PRP at 14. Bale contends the following exchange is
improper:
[PROSECUTOR]: Okay. Now, you testified earlier that some people who were
sort of just witnesses saw the other two males associated throw some stuff.
[OFFICER]: Yes.
[PROSECUTOR]: Did you recover or was a BB gun recovered?
[OFFICER]: Yes.
[PROSECUTOR]: Did you get a look at the BB gun?
[OFFICER]: Yes.
[PROSECUTOR]: And did it look different than the weapon that Mr. Bale had?
[OFFICER]: Yes.
16
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
[PROSECUTOR]: Okay. Is there any doubt in your mind that the weapon that Mr.
Bale had was a semi-automatic gun, 9mm, as opposed to a BB gun?
[OFFICER]: No doubt in my mind whatsoever.
PRP at Ex. GG.
Bale does not argue that the prosecutor’s conduct was flagrant and ill-intentioned.
Further, Bale does not argue how the above exchange prejudiced him at trial and does not show
that any resulting prejudice was incurable. Accordingly, Bale’s claim fails.
D. Misstating the Law
Bale argues the prosecutor “in closing arguments, had again mis-stated [sic] the element
of ‘intent’ by stating ‘all you have to do is scare them.’” PRP at 14 (citing PRP at Ex. MM).
Although Bale cites to the record, the statement he quotes above is not located in the record as
cited. As a result, Bale does not specify which statements we are to review. Because Bale fails
to state with particularity facts that would entitle him to relief, his claim fails.
E. Closing Argument
Bale also argues the prosecutor committed misconduct during closing argument by
stating Bale intended to shoot and kill the officers, the evidence proved Bale was guilty of two
counts of first degree assault, and the prosecutor only needed to prove the officers were afraid to
prove intent. This argument fails.
We review a prosecutor’s purportedly improper remarks in the context of the entire
argument, the issues in the case, the evidence addressed in the argument, and the instructions to
the jury. State v. Gregory, 158 Wn.2d 759, 810, 147 P.3d 1201 (2006). A prosecutor has wide
17
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
latitude to comment on evidence introduced at trial and to draw reasonable inferences from that
evidence. Thorgerson, 172 Wn.2d at 448.
During closing argument, the prosecutor stated: “That shows you intent right there.
Because it’s a volitional act that he did with a purpose. . . . What’s that purpose? To kill this
officer, to hurt this officer, to get away from this officer.” PRP at Ex. OO. The prosecutor
continued, “Count 2 has to do with Officer Schandel. Now, you may say, well, the gun was
never pointed at Officer Schandel. Well, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, he was afraid, not
only for his partner, the man he trained, but also for himself.” PRP at Ex. QQ & RR.
Bale is unclear on how the above statements support his contentions that the prosecutor
repeatedly committed misconduct during closing argument. The prosecutor commented on the
evidence introduced at trial and inferred from that evidence that Officer Schandel feared for his
life and that Bale’s actions showed that he intended to inflict great bodily harm on the officers.
Bale does not offer authority or analysis that specifies why the prosecutor’s statements were
improper and does not discuss how the prosecutor’s statements prejudiced him. This claim fails.
V. INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL
Bale also argues he received ineffective assistance of counsel because (a) trial counsel
failed to request a jury instruction on a lesser included offense, (b) trial counsel failed to object,
(c) trial counsel failed to request a dismissal of his possession of a stolen firearm charge, and (d)
appellate counsel failed to file a motion for reconsideration of his first direct appeal and did not
notify him of the deadline to file the motion. Bale’s arguments fail.
18
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
To establish ineffective assistance of counsel, Bale must show both deficient performance
and resulting prejudice. State v. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d 322, 334-35, 899 P.2d 1251 (1995).
Counsel’s performance is deficient when it falls below an objective standard of reasonableness.
Grier, 171 Wn.2d at 33. To show prejudice, a petitioner must demonstrate that there is a
probability that, but for counsel’s deficient performance, the result of the proceeding would have
been different. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335. Failure to establish either prong is fatal to an
ineffective assistance of counsel claim. Strickland, 466 U.S. at 687. There is a strong
presumption of effective assistance, and the petitioner bears the burden of demonstrating the
absence of a strategic reason for the challenged conduct. State v. McNeal, 145 Wn.2d 352, 362,
37 P.3d 280 (2002).
A. Failure To Submit a Lesser Included Instruction
Bale argues that his counsel was ineffective by failing to request a jury instruction on a
lesser included offense. This argument fails.
Counsel’s decision to not request a jury instruction on a lesser included offense is not
ineffective assistance of counsel if it can be characterized as part of a legitimate trial strategy to
obtain an acquittal. State v. Hassan, 151 Wn. App. 209, 218, 211 P.3d 441 (2009). “‘When
counsel’s conduct can be characterized as legitimate trial strategy or tactics, performance is not
deficient.’” Grier, 171 Wn.2d at 33 (quoting Kyllo, 166 Wn.2d at 863. Accordingly, we must
determine if counsel’s decision not to request a lesser included instruction was reasonable. 171
Wn.2d at 34.
19
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
The ineffective assistance of counsel standard is highly deferential, and it requires that we
presume counsel’s performance was reasonable. Bale fails to state with particularity any facts
that would entitle him to a lesser included instruction and does not provide any analysis to
explain how counsel’s failure to request the instruction was unreasonable. Accordingly, Bale
cannot demonstrate that his counsel’s performance was deficient for not proposing a lesser
included instruction because tactical choices cannot demonstrate ineffective assistance of
counsel. Because Bale did not show that his counsel’s performance in failing to request a lesser
included offense instruction was deficient, his claim fails.
B. Failure To Object
Bale also argues that he was prejudiced by ineffective assistance of counsel when trial
counsel failed to object to the prosecutor’s purported misconduct and to the officers’ testimony
regarding the firearm and altercation. This argument fails.
We view the decisions of whether and when to object as “classic example[s] of trial
tactics.” State v. Madison, 53 Wn. App. 754, 763, 770 P.2d 662, review denied, 113 Wn.2d 1002(1989). “Only in egregious circumstances, on testimony central to the State’s case, will the
failure to object constitute incompetence of counsel justifying reversal.” 53 Wn. App. at 763.
Where a petitioner bases his ineffective assistance of counsel claim on trial counsel’s failure to
object, the petitioner must show that the objection would likely have succeeded. State v. Gerdts,
136 Wn. App. 720, 727, 150 P.3d 627 (2007).
Bale fails to provide facts showing that the complained-of statements and questions were
so egregious as to warrant reversal or that an objection by counsel would likely have succeeded.
20
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
Further, Bale does not offer facts or analysis explaining how the result of his trial would have
been different had counsel objected. As a result, Bale fails to demonstrate that his counsel’s
performance prejudiced him at trial. Accordingly, Bale cannot demonstrate ineffective
assistance of counsel, and his claim fails.
C. Failure To Request Dismissal of Bale’s Possession of a Stolen Firearm Charge
Bale also argues that his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to request a dismissal of
his unlawful possession of a firearm charge. This claim is moot.
Generally, we do not review a question that is moot. Citizens for Financially Responsible
Gov’t v. City of Spokane, 99 Wn.2d 339, 350, 662 P.2d 845 (1983). A case is moot “when it
involves only abstract propositions or questions, the substantial questions in the trial court no
longer exist, or a court can no longer provide effective relief.” Spokane Research & Def. Fund v.
City of Spokane, 155 Wn.2d 89, 99, 117 P.3d 1117 (2005).
On Bale’s first direct appeal, we reversed Bale’s conviction for possession of a stolen
firearm for insufficient evidence. Bale, No. 47172-1, at 15. Accordingly, we cannot provide
Bale effective relief. Further, Bale fails to show how counsel’s failure to request dismissal
resulted in actual and substantial prejudice as he does not argue that the charge affected his first
degree assault convictions. Therefore, we do not address this claim because it is moot.
D. Appellate Counsel’s Failure To File Motion for Reconsideration
Bale also argues that appellate counsel was ineffective by failing to file a motion for
reconsideration of his first direct appeal and by failing to notify him of the deadline to file the
motion. This argument fails.
21
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
Bale fails to state any facts showing that we would have granted a motion to reconsider
his first direct appeal had either he or appellate counsel timely filed a motion for reconsideration.
Further, Bale offers no analysis of how appellate counsel’s failure prejudiced him. Because Bale
cannot show that counsel’s failures resulted in actual and substantial prejudice, his claim fails.
VI. WITNESSES’ ALLEGED PERJURY
Bale also argues that the officers committed perjury while testifying at trial. However,
Bale does not present evidence showing that the officers’ testimony was knowingly false.
Further, Bale is unable to present facts showing that his bald assertions are more than speculation
and conjecture. Accordingly, without additional information, Bale fails to show that the officers’
testimony was perjured and resulted in a complete miscarriage of justice. His claim fails.
VII. INADMISSIBLE OPINION EVIDENCE
Bale also argues that the officers’ opinion testimony as to his guilt improperly invaded
the province of the jury. Despite this, Bale does not provide evidence showing that the officers
testified about his guilt and does not specify the statements he considers improper. Further, Bale
does not offer an analysis of how the officers’ alleged testimony invaded the province of the
jury. As a result, Bale does not state any facts which, if proven, would entitle him to relief and
fails to present evidence showing that his allegations are more than mere conjecture. Thus, his
claim fails.
VIII. RIGHT TO SPEEDY ARRAIGNMENT
Bale also argues that his right to speedy arraignment was violated because the district
court lacked subject matter jurisdiction to arraign him. This argument fails.
22
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
RCW 3.66.060 governs the district court’s criminal jurisdiction and grants district and
superior courts concurrent jurisdiction. State v. Stock, 44 Wn. App. 467, 474, 722 P.2d 1330(1986). RCW 3.66.060 provides that the district court “shall have jurisdiction . . . to sit as a
committing magistrate and conduct preliminary hearings in cases provided by law.”
Accordingly, district courts have jurisdiction to arraign defendants for felony charges. See State
v. Bliss, 191 Wn. App. 903, 913, 365 P.3d 764 (2015). The district court’s exercise of its
concurrent jurisdiction “does not deprive the superior courts of any power.” Stock, 44 Wn. App.
at 474. Therefore, the district court had concurrent jurisdiction with the trial court when it
arraigned Bale. His claim fails.
IX. MISSING TRANSCRIPTS
Bale also argues that his right to a fair appeal was violated because the court refused to
provide him with requested copies of the transcript showing that the prosecutor was removed
from the case. This argument fails.
A petitioner is entitled to a record of sufficient completeness to permit meaningful
appellate review of his claims. State v. Tilton, 149 Wn.2d 775, 781, 72 P.3d 735 (2003). “‘A
record of sufficient completeness does not translate automatically into a complete verbatim
transcript.’” 149 Wn.2d at 781(internal quotations omitted) (quoting Mayer v. City of Chicago,
404 U.S. 189, 194, 92 S. Ct. 410, 414, 30 L. Ed. 2d 372 (1971)). A party seeking review
arranges for the transcription of all portions of the record necessary to present the issues raised
on appeal. RAP 9.2(a), (b).
23
No. 48042-5-II
Cons. with No. 47569-3-II
Bale filed a motion for the verbatim report of proceedings from August 2, 2012, on
January 2, 2015. The court denied Bale’s motion, finding that because Bale was represented by
counsel and his direct appeal had been decided, “if the attorney who wishes to petition for review
from the state Supreme Court needs a record, they will order it, no doubt.” VRP (Feb. 20, 2015)
at 4-5.
While Bale is entitled to a record of sufficient completeness, he is not automatically
entitled to a complete verbatim transcript. Bale does not allege facts showing that a proceeding
on the record took place on August 2, 2012, and he does not corroborate his assertion that the
trial prosecutor was removed in that proceeding. Further, Bale fails to show that the court’s
denial of his motion for the verbatim report of proceedings resulted in actual and substantive
prejudice. Therefore, Bale’s claim fails.
We affirm Bale’s sentence, deny his personal restraint petition, and waive appellate costs.
A majority of the panel having determined that this opinion will not be printed in the
Washington Appellate Reports but will be filed for public record in accordance with RCW
2.06.040, it is so ordered.
Worswick, P.J.
We concur:
Johanson, J.
Sutton, J.
24