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Hickey \par Assistant Attorney General \par Office of the Attorney General \par Prosecution Division \par 2\_200E Judicial Center Bldg. \par 120 West O'Brien Drive \par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell \par }{\ul\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Appearing for Defendant\_Appellant}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 : \par Peter C. Perez, Esq. \par Law Offices of David J. Lujan \par Suite 227, Marina Hotel Bldg. \par 470 Hernan Cortes Ave. \par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts11\trqc\trgaph120\trleft-120\trhdr\trftsWidth1\trpaddl120\trpaddr120\trpaddfl3\trpaddfr3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4680\clshdrawnil \cellx4560\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4680\clshdrawnil \cellx9240\row }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \par BEFORE:}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 BENJAMIN J. F. CRUZ, Chief Justice, PETER C. SIGUENZA, Associate Justice; ALBERTO C. LAMORENA, III}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Appointed Designated Justice by Chief Justice Cruz.}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , Designated Justice.}{\insrsid15751968 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 CRUZ, CJ:}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 On March 18, 1998, Appellant Albert Iriarte Evaristo was convicted of one count of murder and the special allegation of possession and use of a deadly weapon in the com mission of a felony; and of one count of attempted aggravated assault and the special allegation.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The court sentenced Evaristo to life in prison for murder, twenty-five (25) consecutive years for the special allegation, and three (3) years for aggravated assault. }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo raises three issues on appeal.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 First, whether the trial court erred in admitting, over the Appellant}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s objections, evidence of prior bad acts.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Second, whether the Attorney General}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s comments during the closing arguments were improper and amounted to prosecutorial misconduct which deprived the Appellant of his right to a fair trial under the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Finally, whether the trial court erred in submitting special allegation instructions and verdicts to the jury.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 On April 13, 1996, Karen Evaristo (}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Karen}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 ), Appellant}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s wife, was killed.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The Appellant, Albert Iriarte Evaristo (}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 ), was married to Karen for approximately fifteen (15) years before she began an affair with another man, Gil Barcinas (}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Barcinas}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 ).}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo knew about his wife}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s involvement with Barcinas and was upset.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 When the two men met by chance, they generally would exchange hostile words and posture menacingly toward one another.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Eventually, the tensions led to the events of April 13, 1996. }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 On the evening of April 13, 1996, Karen met with Evaristo to talk.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 After her meeting with Evaristo, Karen went to Barcinas}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 home.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo also drove to Barcinas}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 apartment and parked approximately a block away from Barcinas}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 home.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo got out of his vehicle whereupon he encountered Barcinas walking toward him.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Beyond this, the facts surrounding the attack are largely in dispute.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Witnesses described Evaristo, as the }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 man in the pants,}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 who}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 attacked Barcinas, the }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 man in the shorts.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. X pp. 140-142, 156 (Jury Trial, March 12, 1998).}}}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Undisputed is that the two men began to fight.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The fight led to the infliction of knife wounds to both Karen and Barcinas.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Witnesses testified that Evaristo turned the knife on himself when Evaristo realized Karen was badly hurt.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. X pp. 144-145, 150, 168 (Jury Trial, March 12, 1998).}}}{ \insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 5\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo was indicted on April 25, 1996. He was indicted on two charges: Attempted Aggravated Murder with a Special Allegation of Possession and Use of a Deadly Weapon and Aggravated Murder with a Special Allegation of Possession and Use of a Deadly Weapon.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 ANALYSIS}{\b\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835\charrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 6\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This court has jurisdiction over the matter pursuant to 7 GCA sections 3107 and 3108 (1994) and 48 U.S.C. section 1424-1(b) (1984).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo first argues that the trial court committed reversible error in rejecting his Motion }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In Limine }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 to Disclose Bad Acts or Suppress under Rule 404(b) (1995).}{\insrsid15751968 } {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The admission of evidence of prior similar bad acts under 6 GCA section 404(b) is reviewed for abuse of discretion.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Santiago, }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 46 F.3d 885, 888 (9th Cir. 1996).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The court}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s application of Rule 403 to this evidence is also reviewed for an abuse of discretion.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Houser}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 929 F.2d 1369, 1373 (1990).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This court has defined an abuse of discretion as that }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 exercised to an end not justified by the evidence, a judgment that is clearly against the logic and effect of the facts as are found.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 People v. Quinata, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 1999 Guam 6, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 17 (citations omitted).}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 7\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The source for Guam}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s Rule 404(b) is FRE 404(b).}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\b\fs20\insrsid3242992 404(b) Other crimes, wrongs, or acts. }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Evidence of other crimes, wrongs, or acts is not admissible to prove the character of a person in order to show that he acted in conformity therewith. It may, however, b e admissible for other purposes, such as proof of motive, opportunity, intent, preparation, plan, knowledge, identity or absence of mistake or accident. 6 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 404(b) (1995). }}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In 1991, the Federal Rules of Evidence (}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 FRE}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 ),}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 404(b) was amended to include a general notice provision.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 In 1991, Congress amended FRE 404(b) to include a notice provision, }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 the prosecution in a criminal case shall provide reasonable notice in advance of trial, or during trial if the court excuses pretrial notice on good cause shown, of the general nature of any such evidence it intends to introduce at trial.}{ \fs20\insrsid3242992 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Federal Rules of Evidence 404(b), 28 U.S.C. A. (1991).}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Therefore, because Guam derived its 404(b) Rule from the Federal rules, Evaristo urges this court to find that the admissibility of bad acts is predicated upon notice first being given.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 The defense counsel admits at a pretrial hearing that there is no statutory basis requiring the People to provide the defense with such notice. Transcript, vol. IV, Part B, p. 12 (Motion }{\i\fs20\insrsid3242992 In Limine}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, February 25, 1998).}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 8\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This court is aware that Guam has not, to date, adopted such a notice provision.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Accordingly, the People are not required to serve a defendant with notice of their intention to introduce evidence of prior bad acts.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Notwithstand ing the absence of such a rule, Evaristo was in fact given notice of the People}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s intention to introduce 404(b) evidence of prior bad acts.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 9\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 During the hearings on Evaristo}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s Motion to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, the People detailed on the record the prior bad acts evidence intended to be introduced at trial-- a stabbing incident two days prior to the death of Karen; threats to kill her; a possible raping at knife-point; }{ \insrsid4284835 and an incident where Evaristo }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 burned all of her clothes.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. IV, Part B, pp. 7-11 (Motion }{\i\fs20\insrsid3242992 In Limine}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, February 25, 1998). After weighing the arguments, the lower court decided that the prosecution could present only the evidence -- that two (2) nights prior to Karen}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 s death, Evaristo: (1) threatened to kill her; (2) threatened her; and (3) stabbed the door of their residence. Transcript, Vol. IV, Part C, pp. 112-115 (Motion }{ \i\fs20\insrsid3242992 In Limine}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, February 25, 1998).}{\insrsid3242992 }}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The People stated the factual basis as well as identified potential witnesses.}{\cs15\i\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. IV, Part B, pp. 7-11 (Motion }{\i\fs20\insrsid3242992 In Limine}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, February 25, 1998).}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Additionally, the lower court offered defense counsel more time to review the 404(b) information.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The defense counsel responded }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Well, I}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 m prepared to argue those, Your Honor.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. IV, Part B, p. 13 (Motion }{\i\fs20\insrsid3242992 In Limine}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, February 25, 1998).}{\insrsid3242992 }}}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Therefore, the actual events belie Evaristo}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s assertion that he was denied notice.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 10\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Under 6 GCA section 404(b), evidence of other crimes, wrongs, or acts are admissible to show proof of motive, opportunity, intent, preparation, plan, knowledge, identity, or absence of mistake or accident.}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In this case, the People introduced the evidence to show intent, and the court received it solely for that purpose.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, Vol. IV, Part C, pp. 112-115 (Motion }{\i\fs20\insrsid3242992 In Limine}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, February 25, 1998).}{\insrsid3242992 }}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 11\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The Ninth Circuit held that, to be admissible under Rule 404(b), }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 evidence of prior bad acts and crimes must: (i) prove a material element of the crime currently charged; (ii) show similarity between the past and charged conduct; (iii) be based on sufficient evidence; and (iv) not be too remote in time.}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Hinton, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 31 F.3d 817, 822 (9th Cir. 1994) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Upon review of the record, the lower court}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s admission of the 404(b) evidence satisfies the four prongs of the }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Hinton}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 test.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 12\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 As to prong one, intent is clearly an element of the charge of aggravated murder.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 See }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 9 GCA }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 16.30 (a)(1) (1993).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 It is the People}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s burden to prove all the elements of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 See }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 8 GCA }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 90.21(1993).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In }{ \i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Estelle v. McGuire}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 502 U.S. 62, 112 S.Ct. 475 (1991), the defendant was charged with the death of his infant daughter.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 To prove that the death did not occur by accident, the prosecution sought to introduce evidence of}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 battered child syndrome.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 at 68-69; 112 S.Ct. at 479-480.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The defendant objected to the prosecutor}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s proffer of evidence, arguing that he had not asserted that the death was accidental.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id.}{\i\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The Supreme Court ruled that the evidence was relevant to show intent.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id. }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 at 70, 112 S.Ct. at 481.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 A defendant}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s tactical decision t o not formally assert the defense of a lack of intent did not relieve the government of their burden of proof.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id. }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 at 69; 112 S.Ct. at 480.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Therefore, evidence that went to prove the element of intent was properly admitted in the prosecution}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}} {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s case-in-chief.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 13\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Here, similar to the defendant in }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Estelle,}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo did not present a case on his affirmative defenses per se.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Instead, Evaristo relied upon the belief that the People failed to prove its case-in-chief.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s counsel presented the defenses of provocation, self-defense, and a failure to prove the necessary elements of the crime through cross-examination and in both the opening and closing arguments.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. IX pp. 15-20, 24-25 (Motion }{ \i\fs20\insrsid3242992 In Limine}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 to Exclude 404(b) Evidence, February 25, 1998)}{\insrsid3242992 ; }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. X pp. 52, 68 (Jury Trial, March 12, 1998).}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Therefore, the admission of the 404(b) prior bad acts evidence was intended both to weaken the assertion of such defenses as well as establish the element of intent to commit the alleged crime.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Accordingly, this court finds that the purpose for which the evidence was used satisfies the first prong of the }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Hinton }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 test.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 14\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 As to the second prong, similarity, the prior bad act in the case at bar was similar to the crime charged.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The evidence showed that only two days previous to the date of the incident, Evari sto stabbed the door of the home he shared with Karen repeatedly.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. X pp. 87-90; 114 (Jury Trial, March 11, 1998).}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The crime charged involved the stabbing death of Karen by Evaristo.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 We find that the acts are similar enough that this prong is satisfied.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 15\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The third prong, sufficient evidence, was satisfied by the testimony of two witnesses, Isabel Melanson and Ronald Toves.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Each witness observed portions of the incident and identified Evaristo as the person stabbing the door with a knife.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Hinton}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , the defendant objected to the introduction of the 404(b) evidence based upon the testimony of one eye witness.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 31 F.3d at 823.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The }{ \i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Hinton }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 court found}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 the testimony of one witness was sufficient to satisfy the low threshold required under}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 this part of the test.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id.}{\i\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In the case at bar, there are two eyewitnesses who both observed the incident, which satisfies this prong.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 16\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Finally, with regard to the fourth prong, proximity in time, the prior bad act was committed only two days before Karen}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s death.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 See United States v. Hadley, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 918 F.2d 848, 851 (9th Cir. 1990) (allowing the admission of evidence of prior conduct over ten years [old], the court found that the }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}} {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 similarity of the prior act to the offense charged outweighs concerns regarding remoteness.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 ) Here,}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 only two days had passed between the prior act and the incident at issue.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Accordingly, this}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 court finds that the prior act was not too remote in time.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Therefore, under the facts of this case, this court finds that the lower court made its decision based upon the evidence presented and did not commit an abuse of discretion in determining that the 404(b) evidence was admissible.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 17\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 We must now address whether the evidence should have been excluded as being substantially more prejudicial than probative.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Under Rule 403,}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\b\fs20\insrsid3242992 Rule 403. Exclusion of Relevant Evidence on Grounds of Prejudice, Confusion or Waste of Time. }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Although relevant, evidence may be excluded if its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice, confusion of the issues, or misleading the jury, or by considerations of undue delay, waste of time, or needless presentation of cumulative evidence. 6 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 403 (1995).}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 it is the court}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s duty to }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 weigh the factors explicitly.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Johnson, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 820 F.2d 1065, 1069 and n.2 (9th Cir. 1987).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The 404(b) evidence here was probative on the issue of intent particularly so given the similarity between the prior incident of stabbing the door and the incident giving rise to the charged offense.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 While the 404(b) evidence was obviously prejudicial, it was not unfairly so, in light of the trial court}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s giving the jury the limiting instruction for the use of such evidence.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The trial court instructed the jury regarding the limiting instruction both after the presentation of the evidence and again at the close of the trial.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Accordingly, we find that the lower court did not abuse its discretion in admitting the prior acts e}{\insrsid4284835 vidence. \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 18\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Next, Evaristo argues he was the victim of several instances of prosecutorial misconduct during his trial.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo first states that during closing arguments, the People made an improper remark that, in itself, warrants a reversal of the judgment.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 harmless error}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 standard of review is applicable to the prosecutorial comments to which the defendant objected.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Chavez-Vernaza, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 844 F.2d 1368, 1377 (9th Cir. 1988).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Reversal under the harmless error standard is warranted when it is more probable than not that the misconduct affected the jury}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s verdict.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id. }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 at 1377-1378.}{ \insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 19\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 During the People}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s closing argument, the People asked the jurors to }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 imagine this knife being stuck into your wife}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 .}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. XI, p. 14 (Closing Arguments, March 13, 1998). }{\insrsid3242992 }}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo argues that this comment violated the }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 golden rule.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 golden rule}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 argument suggests that jurors place themselves in the position of a party or victim.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Puckett v. State}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 918 S.W. 2d 707, 711 (Ark. 1996).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This type of argument is impermissible because it tends to encourage the jurors to view the matter as a party in the case.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id. }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Consequently, the jurors}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 ability to objectively exercise their duty to weigh the evidence may be compromised.}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id.}{\i\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The People concede that this comment was a violation of the }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 golden rule.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Thus, the question here is whether the People}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s comment was used in such a way that the conviction was based upon passion, bias or sympathy, rather than impartially.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 20\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In order for a petitioner to succeed on a claim of prosecutorial misconduct, he must show that the }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 prosecutors}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 comments}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 so infected the trial with unfairness as to make the resulting conviction a denial of due process.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Darden v. Wainwright, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 477 U.S. 168, 181, 106 S.Ct. 2464, 2471 (1986).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The fact that the People}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s remarks to a jury may have been }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 undesirable or even universally condemned}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 is not tantamount to a constitutional violation.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 21\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Looking to the record, we find that the remark was made almost at the very beginning of the People}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s closing argument.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{ \fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. XI pp. 13-14 (Closing Arguments, March 13, 1998). }{\insrsid3242992 }}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Immediately after the People made the remark, counsel for the defense objected and the trial court sustained the objection, instructing the jury to }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 disregard the particular argument to imagine this knife going into . . . your wife.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{ \fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. XI pp. 14-15 (Closing Arguments, March 13, 1998). }{\insrsid3242992 }}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 A trial judge may cure the effect of improper prosecutorial comment by giving appropriate curative instructions to the jury.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Endicott, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 803 F.2d 506, 513 (9th Cir. 1986).}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Additionally, the trial judge instructed the jury after closing arguments, that }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 [s]tatements made by the attorneys during trial are not evidence.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Appellee}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3242992 s}{\insrsid3242992 }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Supplemental Excerpt of Record at 2.}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This court is not convinced that the comment influenced the jury to the extent that the jury}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s conviction was not arrived at objectively, nor is there any proffer of such by Evaristo. }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 22\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Moreover, when the jury rendered its decision, Evaristo was acquitted of the Aggravated Murder charge, but was found guilty of the lesser charge of Murder.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The court finds that the jury was able to weigh the evidence, not rushing to convict Evaristo of the crimes as charged.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 A verdict acquitting the defendant of some of the charges against him is }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 indicative of the jury}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s ability to weigh the evidence without prejudice.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Koon}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 34 F. 3d 1416, 1446 (9th Cir. 1994), }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 rev}{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 d in part on other grounds}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Koon v.}{\i\insrsid15751968 }{ \i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 518 U.S. 81, 116 S.Ct. 2035 (1996).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 23\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo also argues that the People made comments calculated to inflame the jury. The }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 plain error}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 standard of review is applicable to prosecutorial comments to which defendant failed to raise an objection.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 People}{\i\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 v. Ueki,}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 1999 Guam 4, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 17.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Reversal under the plain error standard is only warranted for errors that seriously affect the fairness, integrity or public reputation of judicial proceedings.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 . }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 24\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The reviewing court}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s discretion to reverse for plain error should be }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 used sparingly, solely in those circumstances in which a miscarriage of justice would otherwise result.}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Ueki}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 1999 Guam 4 at }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 17 (quoting}{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Young, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 470 U.S. at 15, 105 S.Ct. at 1046 (1985)).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Reversal for plain error is warranted if Evaristo shows (1) there was an error; (2) the error was plain; and (3)}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 substantial rights were affected.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id. }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 (citing}{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Olano, }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 507 U.S. 725, 732, 113 S. Ct. 1770, 1776}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 (1993)).}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 25\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Specifically at issue, was the People}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s use of the phrases such as }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 slashed,}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 gushing blood,}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 bleeding,}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 and }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 stabbing the door with a knife}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 during the prosecutor}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s summation.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. XI pp. 15, 20-23 (Closing Arguments, March 13, 1998).}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 While all graphic words, the record reflects that these phrases were introduced into evidence by the presented testimony}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. VI pp. 15, 30 (Jury Trial, March 6, 1998); Tr anscript, vol. X pp. 90-91, 114 (Jury Trial, March 12, 1998)}{\insrsid3242992 .}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 .}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo has not shown that it was erroneous for the prosecutor to recount the evidence that the jury had already heard.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The comments were made for the purposes of summarizing the evidence in a graphic and forceful manner.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 26\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Even should this court find that the prosecutor went beyond the bounds of appropriate advocacy that would not automatically entitle Evaristo to a reversal.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The court would still have to be convinced that it was a plain error that affected substantial rights.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Once a plain error has been found, the burden lies with the defendant to demonstrate that the error that occurred was prejudicial.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Ueki}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 1999 Guam 4, at }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 23. Evaristo has failed to make such a showing.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 27\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo also argues that the prosecutor used the 404(b) evidence beyond the court}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s limiting instruction.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 As discussed above, the 404(b) evidence,}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 of stabbing the door, was admitted to show an element of the charge, intent.}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Since Evaristo did not present a case on any affirmative defenses, Evaristo argues that the evidence was used to show a criminal propensity. However, the record evinces that in Evaristo}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s opening and closing arguments, affirmative defenses were asserted.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 28\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Moreover, throughout the cross-examination of the People}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s witnesses, Evaristo tried to present Barcinas as the aggressor}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. IX pp. 24-25 (Jury Trial, March 11, 1998)}{\insrsid3242992 ; }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. X pp. 52, 68 (Jury Trial, March 12, 1998).}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 and demonstrates that Evaristo did not possess the culpable mental state to commit the crime.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo introduced a love letter written on the day of the incident, and asked a witness if the letter evidenced a person with the intent to kill his wife.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. IX pp. 15-20 (Jury Trial, March 11, 1998).}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The People did not argue that the evidence tended to prove that Evaristo had the propensity to commit violent acts.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The People used the evidence to show that Evaristo possessed the requisite intent.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Therefore, this court does not find that the 404(b) evidence was improperly used.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 29\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Lastly, w ith respect to the issue of prosecutorial misconduct, Evaristo argues that the prosecutor improperly vouched for government witnesses.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Again, no objection was made to such statements during the trial, therefore, the plain error standard of review applies. }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Ueki}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 1999 Guam 4, at }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 17.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 In }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Ueki}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , this court stated that vouching occurs when the government either (1) suggests that the government is aware of evidence not presented to the jury which would tend to support a particular witness}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 testimony; or (2) places the }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 prestige of the government behind the witnesses through personal assurances of their veracity . . . .}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id. }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 at }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 19 (citing}{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 United States v. Molina, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 934 F.2d 1440, 1445 (9th Cir. 1991)).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 30\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Evaristo cites extensively to the record for instances of alleged vouching.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The prosecutor made the following comments:}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li1440\ri1440\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Albert}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s version of what happened doesn}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 t add up.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Doesn}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 t add up not only to Gil}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s testimony.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Good.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Gil is a victim in this case, too, and Gil was in love with Karen.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 But it also doesn}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 t add up to the three eyewitnesses who were there that night.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 They came in and they testified and their story wasn}{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 t challenged, really}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 .}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Their story shows, even without Gil}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s statements, show that Albert killed his wife.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 (emphasis added).}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. XI p. 26 (Closing Arguments, March 13, 1998).}}}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri1440\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Mr. Taijeron said that that pickup screeched to a stop, and the defendant got out, and Gil is already coming down the street.}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 We know that.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 And it}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s the operator of that pickup truck that we know to be Albert Evaristo who chases Gil Barcinas.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Mr. Taijeron and Mr. Pangelinan both stated to you that it was the person in jeans, not the shorts, who is the attacker.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 They have nothing to do with this case other than the fact they were there.}{ \b\insrsid15751968 }{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 They don}{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 t know the victim or the defendant.}{\b\insrsid15751968 }{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 They}{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 re not involved in anything surrounding Gil and Karen}{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s relationship.}{\b\insrsid15751968 }{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 They just happened to be there, and they both saw the defendant attacking Gil}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , chasing them down the street, and then Gil turns around.}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Gil doesn}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 t attack the defendant.}{ \insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 And they both state that it look like he}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s punching Gil because at that point in time, they haven}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 t seen the knife.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 (emphasis added).}{\cs15\super\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \cs15\super\insrsid3242992 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3242992 Transcript, vol. XI p. 27 (Closing Arguments, March 13, 1998).}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 31\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This court found in }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Ueki }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 that direct bolstering of a witness}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 testimony can be misleading to the jury.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Ueki, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 1999 Guam 4}{ \i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 at }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 22.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 While the prosecutor here did not appear to directly assert her personal opinion of any witnesses}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 credibility, it would appear that certain of the comments could be regarded as indirectly explaining or bolstering the credibility of witnesses.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 If this court finds that there was no vouching, the analysis ends.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 However, if the court decides that}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 these types of comments bordered on vouc hing, and therefore were improper, the court then must consider whether such an error affected substantial rights.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 32\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The court considers the following factors in determining the effect of the prosecutor}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s vouch ing on the outcome of the case: }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 (1) the form of the vouching; (2) the extent of the personal opinion asserted; (3) the extent to which a prosecutor}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s statements exhibited extra record knowledge supporting a witness}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 veracity; and (4) the testimony}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s import viewed in the context of the case as a whole.}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Id. }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 at }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 24 (citation omitted).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 33\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Here, the court finds that the vouching, if it occurred at all, was done indirectly. The prosecutor did not personally give support to any witness}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s testimony, nor}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 did she intimate that she had extra record knowledge supporting any witness}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 veracity.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Moreover, Evaristo does not argue that absent the bolstering of witnesses}{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 testimony, the jury would have decided differently than it did. }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 34\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Upon review of the record, it would appear that the jury was free to judge for itself the weight of the evidence presented and the credibility of the testifying witnesses.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 As noted above, the jury did not decide to convict Evaristo of the more serious charge of aggravated murder, suggesting its ability to weigh the evidence objectively.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This court finds that upon consideration of the matter, whatever vouching may have occurred, it was harmless and did not unfairly influence the jury so as }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 to undermine the fundamental fairness of the trial and contribute to a miscarriage of justice.}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Ueki}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 , 1999 Guam 4 at }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 31 (citing}{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Young, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 470 U.S. at 16, 105 S.Ct. at 1047 (1985)).}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 35\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The final challenge, is whether the trial court erred in submitting the Special Allegation, Title 9 GCA section 80.37 (1996).}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 While Evaristo states the issue and cites to one case, he then fails to address the matter beyond these preliminary steps. He does not analyze why it is that the trial court committed an error in submitting the matter to the jury.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Furthermore, he does not present any type of argument as to why the applicability of the special allegation should have remained within the domain of the j udge to decide. With respect to the sole case cited, Evaristo does not discuss how it is applicable to facts presented in this appeal.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 36\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 This court has previously determined that where an issue is presented, but with no argument, citation to authority or analysis, the issue is considered abandoned.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\i\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 People v. Quinata, }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 1999 Guam 6, }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 25.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 There having been no real argument advanced, the court finds the matter abandoned and of no aid to Evaristo}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt \f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 s appeal.}{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 CONCLUSION}{\b\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835\charrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 37\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 The evidence and arguments do not support a finding that the trial court abused its discretion in allowing the 404(b) evidence to be introduced for the limited purpose in which it was used.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Moreover, while Evaristo argues that the prosecutor committed a host of prosecutorial errors that prevented him from receiving a fair trial, the whole of the record does not support such a conclusion. Although Evaristo raises the question of whether the trial cour t erred by submitting a Special Allegation jury instruction, he fails to provide support for such an argument.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Therefore, the argument is rendered abandoned. }{\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid4284835 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 38\tab}}\pard \s16\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 Accordingly, the trial court conviction is hereby }{\b\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 AFFIRMED}{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 in its entirety.}{\insrsid15751968 \par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid4284835 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 PETER C.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 SIGUENZA\tab \tab \tab \tab ALBERTO C.}{\insrsid15751968 }{ \insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 LAMORENA, III \par Associate Justice\tab \tab \tab \tab \tab Designated Justice}{\insrsid15751968 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4284835 {\insrsid15751968 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15751968 {\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 BENJAMIN J.}{\insrsid15751968 }{\insrsid3242992\charrsid15751968 F. CRUZ \par Chief Justice \par }}