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People v. Ueki,}{\fs20\insrsid12725343  1999 Guam 4, Opinion\tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs20\insrsid12725343 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid11559203 9}}}{\fs20\insrsid12725343  of 15
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 DALEY UEKI,
\par }{\insrsid14223880 Defendant-Appellant.}{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
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\par }{\insrsid14223880\charrsid14223880 Superior Court Case No.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\b\insrsid14223880\charrsid14223880 CF0472-96}{\insrsid14223880\charrsid14223880 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid14223880\charrsid14223880 OPINION}{\insrsid14223880 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Filed: February 22, 1999
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Cite as: }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 1999 Guam 4}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Argued and Submitted on 20 February 1998
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid927473 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\insrsid14223880 
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\ul\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Appearing for the Plaintiff-Appellee:}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
\par David M Moore
\par Assistant Attorney General
\par Office of the Attorney General, Prosecution Division
\par Suite 2-200E, Judicial Center Building
\par 120 West O}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Brien Drive
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par 
\par }{\ul\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Appearing for the Defendant-Appellant:}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
\par Richard Parker Arens, Esq.
\par Cunliffe & Cook, P.C.}{\ul\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
\par }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Suite 200, 210 Archbishop Flores Street
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid927473 
\par }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 BEFORE:}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 PETER C. SIGUENZA, Chief Justice; JANET HEALY WEEKS and EDUARDO A. CALVO, Associate Justices.}{\insrsid14223880 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid927473 WEEKS, J}{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid927473 .:
\par }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid927473 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [1]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab Defendant-Appellant Daley Ueki was convicted of First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct and sentenced to the mandatory minimum sentence of fifteen years imprisonment.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 On appeal, Ueki seeks reversal of his conviction based upon two separate claims}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 67 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}
{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  ineffective assistance of counsel and prejudicial vouching by the prosecutor during the trial.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The c
ourt finds the record on appeal insufficient to rule on the ineffective assistance of counsel claim.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Additionally, although the court finds that the prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s statements at trial constitute impermissible vouching, such error does not affect substantial rights under 8 GCA 130.50(b) (1993).}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Therefore, after review of the record, the court hereby affirms the trial court conviction.
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
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\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [2]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The Defendant-Appellant, Daley Ueki (}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Ueki}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
), was indicted, along with two other co-defendants, on 28 August 1996 for Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, as a first degree felony, and First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, as a first degree felony.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The charges arose out of an incident which occurred on or about 18 August 1996 where Ueki was alleged to have engaged in sexual penetration with the vic
tim, at a point in time when she was mentally incapacitated and physically helpless.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Ueki was appointed counsel, two of whom withdrew before defense counsel who eventually represented Ueki at trial was finally appointed.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Ueki plead not guilty to the abov
e charges and his case proceeded to trial on 6 November 1996.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 During the trial, the People presented several witnesses, including the victim and Hidemi Blailes (}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Blailes}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 ) who were key to proving its case against Ueki.}{\insrsid12725343 
\par }{\insrsid927473\charrsid14223880 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [3]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab During closing arguments, the People made the following statements: }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 But what she said on that stand, I submit to you is the truth.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 She told you the truth on that stand.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 And if she said things when she was drunk or unconscious or confused, I submit they were wrong.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 But what she said on here was the truth.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The jury returned with a guilty verdict on the second 
charge of First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\cs15\super\insrsid12725343 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12725343 The first charge in the indictment, Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, was dismissed by the trial court on 14 November 1996.  }}}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 At the sentencing hearing, held on 10 January 1997, the trial court sentenced Ueki to fifteen (15) years incarceration, the minimum time under the statute.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \chftn {\footnote 
\pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12725343 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12725343 
On 26 July 1996, the Governor signed into law P.L. 23-114 which changed the mandatory minimum sentencing for criminal sexual conduct from five (5) to fifteen (15) years incarceration to fifteen (15) years to life without the possibility of parole.}}}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 A judgment was filed on 24 February 1997 and a timely notice of appeal was subsequently filed on 25 February 1997.
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 ANALYSIS}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
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\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [4]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab This court has jurisdiction pursuant to 7 GCA }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  3107(b) and 3108 (1994).}{\cs15\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\cs15\super\insrsid12725343 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12725343 The Defendant-Appellant claimed the court has jurisdiction over this matter pursuant to 8 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid12725343 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid12725343  130.20(a)(6
) (1993) and 8 GCA 130.60 (1993); however, section 130.20 only refers to specific circumstances under which appeals which may be brought by the Government in criminal cases.  Since the appeal was brought by the Defendant-Appellant, the court}{
\fs20\insrsid12725343 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid12725343 s jurisdiction is found in other statutory authority.}{\insrsid12725343   }}}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 On appeal Ueki raises two issues}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 67 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
 that he received ineffective assistance of counsel at the trial court level, and that the People}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s statements made during closing argument constituted prejudicial vouching.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Each issue requires separate analysis and consideration by the court.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Therefore, the court addresses each issue in turn.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 I.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [5]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab Ineffective assistance of counsel claims are questions of law which this court reviews }{
\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 de novo}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 .}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 People v. Quintanilla}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 1998 Guam 17, }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  8.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Although an ineffective assistance of counsel claim may be heard on
 direct appeal,}{\cs15\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12725343 \chftn }{
\i\fs20\insrsid12725343 United States v. Molina}{\fs20\insrsid12725343 , 934 F.2d 1440, 1446 (9}{\fs20\super\insrsid12725343 th}{\fs20\insrsid12725343  Cir. 1991)}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
 it is more properly brought as a writ of habeas corpus.}{\i\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 People v. Perez}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 1999 Guam 2, }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 33;}{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  United States v. Carr}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 18 F.3d 738, 741 (9}{
\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1994).}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Courts will often decline to reach the merits of ineffective assistance of counsel claims because such claims are }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 more appropriately addressed in a habeas corpus proceeding because it requires an evidentiary inquiry beyond the official record.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Carr}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 18 F.3d at 741; }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 United States v. Joelson}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
, 7 F.3d 174, 179 (9}{\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1993); }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 United States v. Cochrane}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 985 F.2d 1027, 1029 (9}{
\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1993). Consequently, in }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Molina}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
, the court held that an ineffective assistance of counsel claim may be brought on direct appeal if the record is sufficiently com}{\insrsid11559203 plete to make a proper finding.
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [6]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab To determine whether a defendant has received ineffective assistance of counsel, a two-part test is employed.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Quintanilla}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 1998 Guam 17 at }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  8.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 A defendant must first establish that counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s performance was deficient and then that such deficiency prejudiced his defense.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  (citing }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Strickland v. Washington}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 466 U.S. 668, 687, 104 S.Ct. 2052, 2064 (1984)).}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 To show deficient performance by counsel, a party must demonstrate that }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 counsel made errors so serious that counsel was not functioning as the }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  9 (quoting }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Strickland }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 466 U.S.}{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 at 687, 104 S.Ct. at 2064.).}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 A.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\jclisttab\tx720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120 {\pntxta .}}
\faauto\ls1\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14223880 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Deficient performance}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [7]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
\tab Failure of an attorney to advise a client of sentencing exposure constitutes deficient performance.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Teague v. Scott}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 60 F.3d 1167, 1171 (5}{
\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1995); }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Alvernaz v. Ratelle}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 831 F. Supp. 790, 792 (S.D. Cal. 1993).}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Failing to properly advise the defendant of the maximum sentence that he could receive falls below the objective standard required by }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Strickland}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 .}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 When the defendant lacks a full understanding of the risks of going to trial, he is unable to make an intelligent choice of whether to accept a plea or take his chances in court.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Teague}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 60 F.3d 1167, 1171 (5}{\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1995).}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [8]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab In }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Alvernaz}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , a defendant was wrongly a
dvised that if convicted at trial he would receive an eight (8) year maximum sentence when in fact he could be facing a life sentence.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 831 F. Supp. 790.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The court assumed deficient performance based on the failure to properly advise the defendant of his sentencing exposure after conviction.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 792.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [9]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The parties agree that had defense counsel improperly advised Ueki, such would constitute deficient performance.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Ueki contends that defense counsel did not inform him, prior to trial, that he faced a minimum term of fifteen (15) years to life in prison.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
To support this contention, Ueki refers to the cross-examination testimony of Blailes during which defense counsel inquired as to whether Blailes}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  counsel had informed him that he could face incarceration for a minimum term of five (5) years to life for a First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct conviction.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
\chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12725343 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12725343 
Blailes was initially charged with First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct; however, he pleaded
 guilty, pursuant to a plea agreement, to Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct and testified for the People against his co-defendant, Ueki.  Presumably, the nature of the cross-examination was to show that Blailes}{\fs20\insrsid12725343 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid12725343 
 testimony was tainted in that he made a deal with the People after realizing the grave punishment he himself might be subjected to had he gone to trial.}}}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [10]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab Although the People agree that counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s performa
nce would be considered deficient had he improperly advised Ueki of his sentencing exposure, the People argue that we cannot be certain that this is what occurred in this case as the record does not clearly support such a finding.}{\insrsid11559203 

\par 
\par {\pntext\pard\plain\s16 \insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 B.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\jclisttab\tx720{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120 {\pntxta .}}
\faauto\ls1\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14223880 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Prejudice to the Defense}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [11]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab As to the second prong of prejudice, }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [t]he defendant must demonstrate actual prejudice by showing that }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 there is a reasonable probability that, but for counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s unprofessional errors, the result of the proceeding would have been different.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 A reasonable probability is a probability sufficient to undermine confidence in the outcome.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Quintanilla}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 1998 Guam 17 at }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  15. (citation omitted).}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [12]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The record as to the second prong is insufficient to determine whether Ueki suffered the requisite prejudice.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
The only evidence presented that supports Ueki}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s claim is that of the cross-examination by defense counsel by Blailes, which alone is inconclusive.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [13]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab In }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Alvernaz}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
, the Petitioner claimed that he received ineffective assistance of counsel based on counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s understatement of the possible consequences of going to trial which caused the Petitioner to turn down a plea offer. 831 F.Supp. at 791.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The court held that a Petitioner must establish that }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
(1) Petitioner would have accepted the plea with the advice of competent counsel, and (2) the trial court would have accepted the plea" in order to prove prejudice.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 792-93.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The Petitioner, in }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Alvernaz}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
, demonstrated that a plea agreement was offered to him, which he would have accepted had he been made aware by counsel of the ramifications of a conviction.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Alvernaz}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
 court had the benefit of a complete record pursuant to a full evidentiary hearing on the issue during which the court heard testimony from defense counsel, the Petitioner and the Petitioner}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s family members.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12725343 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12725343 
The Petitioner had filed petitions for a writ of habeas corpus, which were all denied, by the Superior Court in California, the California District Court of Appeals, and the California Supreme Court.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid12725343 Alvarez}{
\fs20\insrsid12725343 , 831 F. Supp. at 791.  After the denial by the California Supreme Court, the Petitioner filed the action in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of California.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid12725343 Id.}{\fs20\insrsid12725343 
  Applying the federal habeas corpus standard, the court conducted a full evidentiary hearing which provided a sufficient record to address the issue of ineffective assistance of counsel.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid12725343 Id.}{\fs20\insrsid12725343  at 792.}}}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 791-92.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Additionally, the court received multiple declarations from both parties.}{\insrsid14223880  
}{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 792.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [14]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab However, in this case, no plea agreement was ever offered to Ueki; therefore, he cannot say he passed on an opportunity to his detriment.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Ueki submitted an affidavit to support his allegation that defense counsel deficiently advised him.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Affidavits and trial statements are probative as to whether a defe
ndant was prejudiced.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id. }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 at 790.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
However, Ueki did not claim in his affidavit that he would have pleaded guilty had he known he could face life imprisonment.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Nor did Ueki indicate that he would have pushed for a plea agreement in light of the sentence he faced.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Additionally, the record in this case is insufficient as it fails to indicate whether defense counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s performance was deficient and whether such deficient performance, if any, prejudiced the defendant.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [15]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab Although defense counsel, in questioning Blailes, refers to a five (5) year prison term in relation to a First Degree Criminal Sexual 
Conduct charge, this reference does not demonstrate what counsel did or did not relay to Ueki.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 During cross-examination of Blailes, defense counsel asked whether Blailes}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  attorney had said Blailes could be facin
g five (5) years incarceration; this, by itself, does not reflect defense counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s own advise to Ueki.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Furthermore, defense counsel also questioned Blailes as to whether Blailes}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  attorney had informed him that he could also face a maximum confinement of life in prison.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
If Ueki asks this court to consider the cross-examination of Blailes regarding a five (5) year term to be convincing indirect evidence of what defense counsel advised Ueki, then the court must consider defense counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s questions, as to life imprisonment as the outer boundary of sentencing, to be equally convincing indirect evidence as well.}{
\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [16]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab If we assume d
efense counsel inquired about a five (5) year minimum incarceration because he did not know the law or was not aware of the change in the law, then the fact that he also mentioned a life maximum sentence becomes puzzling.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Ueki, in his affidavit, indicates that defense counsel informed him that the range of sentencing he would be facing was five (5) to twenty (20) years and not fifteen (15) years to life.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Yet, during defense counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s cross-examination of Blailes
, Blailes indicated knowledge of a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Furthermore, the record is without evidence to support a claim of prejudice to Ueki.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 No plea agreement was offered, and it is speculative that any offers for plea agreements would have been forthcoming or negotiated had Ueki known his sentencing exposure to be other than what counsel had informed him.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 II.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [17]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab 
Additionally, Ueki argues that the prosecutor, during closing arguments, made statements which constituted impermissible }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 vouching.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 No objection to such statements wa
s made at trial; therefore, the plain error standard of review applies.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 United States v. Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 470 U.S. 1, 14-16, 105 S.Ct. 1038, 1046 (1985);}{
\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  cf. United States v. Jones}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 84 F.3d 1206, 1211 (9}{\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1996).}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The decision to correct the forfeited error rests within the sound discretion of the appellate court; however, in exercising the ability to find plain error, }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 court[s] should not exercise that discretion unless the error }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 seriously affect[s] the fairness, integrity or public reputation of judicial proceedings.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 United States v. Olano}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 507 U.S. 725, 732, 113 S.Ct. 1770, 1776 (1993) (citing the case of }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 470 U.S. at 15, 105 S.Ct. at 1046.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Such discretion should be }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
used sparingly, solely in those circumstances in which a miscarriage of justice would otherwise result.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 470 U.S. at 15, 105 S.Ct. at 1046.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Pursuant to 8 GCA }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  130.50(b), }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [p]lain errors or defects affecting substantial rights may be noticed although they were not brought to the attention of the court.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Therefore, three things must be demonstrated by an appellant when this standard is applicable: (1) there was an error; (2)}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 the error was plain; and (3)}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 substantial rights were affected.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Olano}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
, 507 U.S. at 732, 113 S.Ct. at 1776.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [18]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab An }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 error}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
 occurs when there has been a violation of a legal rule, not waived by a defendant, during court proceedings, despite a failure to make a timely objection.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
 at 733-34, 113 S.Ct. at 1777.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Section 130.50(b) and case authority interpreting Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 52(b), from which section 130.50(b) is derived, also requires such error to be }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 plain.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 734, 113 S.Ct. at 1777.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Courts have equated the term plain with }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 clear}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  or }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 obvious.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 113 S.Ct. at 1777.}{\insrsid14223880 
 }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [19]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The error alleged in this case is improper vouching by the prosecutor.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 In trying to bolster a witness}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s credibility, a prosecutor may not{\*\bkmkstart a_Pleading}{\*\bkmkend a_Pleading} overstep the bounds of propriety and fairness.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 United States v. Kerr}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 981 F.2d 1050, 1053 (9}{\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1992).}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Vouching occurs when the government either:}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 (1) suggests that the government is aware of}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 evidence not presented to the jury which would tend to support a particular witness}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  testimony; or (2) places the }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
prestige of the government behind the witnesses through personal assurances of their veracity . . . .}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 United States v. Molina}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 934 F.2d 1440, 1445 (9}{\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1991).}{
\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 In }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
, the prosecutor made the following statements to the jury during closing arguments:}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 I think [defense couns
el] said that not anyone sitting at this table thinks that Mr. Young intended to defraud Apco.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Well, I was sitting there and I think he was.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
I think he got 85 cents a barrel for every one of those 117,250.91 barrels he hauled and every bit of the money they made on that he got one percent of.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 So, I think he did.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 If we are allowed to give our personal impressions }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 since it was asked of me.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 470 U.S. at 5, 105 S.Ct. at 1041.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
The statements were made in response to defense counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s remarks.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 17, 105 S.Ct. at 1047.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The Court noted that although defense counsel}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s conduct was an ethical breach, the prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s statement of his belief of what the evidence demonstrated should not have been made since such was an }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 improper expression of personal opinion . . . .}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 105 S.Ct. at 1047.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [20]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The Ninth Circuit has addressed the issue of prejudicial vouching in }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Kerr }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
in which that court reviewed the following comments made by the prosecutor:}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 I think he (Jim Lunden) was very candid.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 I don}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 t think it was a pat story, because there are variations.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
I think he (Al Butler) was candid.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 I think he was honest.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Al Butler was candid with you folks.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The question is, were they hoodwinking you when they testified? I think not.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Kerr}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 981 F.2d at 1053.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Kerr}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  court opined that }
{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [a] prosecutor has no business telling the jury his individual impressions of the evidence.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Because he is the sovereign}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s
 representative, the jury may be misled into thinking his conclusions have been validated by the government}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s investigatory apparatus.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{
\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [21]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab In this case, the prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s statements were as follows:}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
But what she said on that stand, I submit to you is the truth.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 She told you the truth on that stand.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 And if she 
said things when she was drunk or unconscious or confused, I submit they were wrong.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 But what she said on here was the truth.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Transcript at 41 (November 18, 1996).}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [22]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab }{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The People concede that the prosecutor asserted her personal opinion of the victim and her testimony.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Clearly, the prosecutor was attempting to bolster the credibility of the victim.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s conduct amounts to the same type of }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 improper expression of personal opinion}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  that was present in the }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  case.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
, 470 U.S. at 17, 105 S.Ct. at 1047.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 She presented her beliefs, as a representative of the government, as to the credibility and veracity of the victim}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s testimony before the jury.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 This conduct can be misleading to a jury.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Accordingly, the court finds that the prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s statements constituted inappropriate vouching which establishes an error that is plain;}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
therefore, satisfying the first two requirements under the plain error standard. }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [23]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The next question is whether the plain error affected substantial rights.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 In other words,}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 was the error prejudicial in that it affected the outcome of the proceedings.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Olano}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 507 U.S. at 734, 113 S.Ct. at 1778.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 In order to make a determination, the comments must be viewed against the entire record to see if plain error occurred.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
United States v. Williams}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 989 F.2d 1061, 1071-72 (9}{\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 th}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Cir. 1993).}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
The burden lies with the defendant to demonstrate that the error that occurred was prejudicial.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Olano}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 507 U.S. at 734, 113 S.Ct. at 1178.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [24]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab In }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Williams}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , the court looked to several factors in determining the effect of the prosecutor}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s vouching on the outcome of the case: (1) the form of the vouching; (2) the extent of the personal opinion asserted; (3) the extent to which a prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s statements exhibited extra record knowledge supporting a witness}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  veracity; and (4) the testimony}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s import viewed in the context of the case as a whole.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Williams}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 989 F.2d at 1072.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Although looking to several factors in analyzing the effects of the vouching, the }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Williams}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  court focused on the fourth factor, viewing the record in its entirety.}{\insrsid14223880 
 }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Because of the character of the vouching in this case, this court also focuses on the fourth factor.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [25]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab Ueki argues that absent such bolstering, the jury would not have given the witness}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  testimony much weight, pointing out that the witness was severely intoxicated and was not conscious during many of the relevant moments during the incident.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Ueki further points out that the case may very well have hinged upon her testimony, given the fact that the only other critical witness admitted to lying under oath.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [26]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The People concede that the comments were directed toward a critical prosecution witness.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
However, the People further claim that there was other direct evidence that linked Ueki to the crime and that the testimony of the vouched witness was not crucial.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Specifically, the People point to Ueki}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s statement upon questioning by the police in which he wrote,}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 she was asleep, 
naked, so I fucked her.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Ueki, in response, contends that an admission of having sex does not constitute an admiss}{\insrsid11559203 ion of criminal sexual conduct.
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [27]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab Viewing the record of the trial in its entirety, this court finds that sufficient evidence was presented to the jury to support and uphold the conviction.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The People presented several witnesses in its case in chief.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The victim testified as to the events which occurred that evening.}{\insrsid14223880 
 }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 See}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  Transcript at}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 45-112 (November 13, 1996).}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Although the victim}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s story may have changed between the time of the incident and trial, her testimony was extremely emotional and the jury was able to make findings based on such an emotional state.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 55-58.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Additionally, the victim testified that she did not consent to having intercourse with Ueki.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 58-59.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [28]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The People called Officer Joseph Guerrero who responded to the victim}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s 911 call.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Officer Guerrero testified that he was familiar with the victim and when he encountered her that morning she was }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 distraught}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  whereas he}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s known her usually to be }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 happy and, you know, she}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s in a good mood, but this is the first time I ever seen her like that.}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  116, 120-22.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Officer Anthony Camacho and Fireman Peter Martinez testified similarly to Officer Guerrero as to the victim}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s physical and emotional state.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 160-61, 229-231.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
Likewise, Godofredo Tagamolila, owner of a Laundromat near the crime scene, testified and identified the three suspects in this case.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 192-24.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The testimony of Officer Jesse J.S. Castro completed the chronology of events from the time the Officers searched for the suspects until the suspects were brought into the police station.}{
\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Id.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  at 197-205.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [29]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab Additionally, the People presented as witnesses, Officer Samuel S. Bersamin, criminalist Felisa May Pineda
, Dr. Patchara Boonprakong, emergency room nurse Maria Frenaflor Achate, Nurse Joann Canovas from Healing Hearts Crisis Center, and Hidemi Blailes.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Ueki}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s clothing, the victim}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s stained clothing, the photographs of the crime scene and the surrounding vicinity, Ueki}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s statement, Blailes}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  statement, and the victim}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s information chart from Healing Hearts were all admitted into evidence in support of the People}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s case and upon which the jury could have found Ueki guilty.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid11559203 

\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [30]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The jury was free to judge for itself the weight of the evidence presented and the credibility of the testifying witnesses.}{\insrsid14223880  }{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Likewise, the victim}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s state of mind was also corroborated by the Officers}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
 testimony, which the jury could have relied upon to determine the crime was committed.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 As to Blailes}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880  credibility, despite the manner in which Ueki may have viewed his testimony and veracity, the jury could have equally believed or disbelieved him, as they were so instructed.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12725343 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12725343 
The jury was instructed at the close of trial that:
\par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12725343 A witness who is wilfully false in one material part of his or her testimony is to be distrusted in oth
ers.  You may reject the whole testimony of a witness who willfully has testified falsely as to a material point unless, from all the evidence, you believe the probability of truth favors his or her testimony in other particulars.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12725343 
\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12725343 Transcript at 53 (November 18, 1996).}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
The jury, in choosing to convict him, was also free to draw inferences and determine the ultimate conclusions as to Ueki}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s own admission.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [31]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s statements were improper; however, the victim}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s testimony was not the sole piece of evidence against Ueki.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Therefore, the court finds }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [v]iewed in context, the prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s statements, although inappropriate and amounting to error, were not such as to undermine the fundamental fairness of the trial and contribute to a miscarriage of justice.}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid14223880  }{\i\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Young}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 , 470 U.S. at 16, 105 S.Ct. at 1047.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 CONCLUSION}{\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [32]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab 
The record is insufficient for this court to determine whether Ueki received ineffective assistance of counsel at the trial court level.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The court reiterates its position that
 such matters are more properly raised through a Petition for Writ of Habeas Corpus.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Even examining the record as it stands, although Ueki}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s allegations, if true, would demonstrate deficient performance, no prejudice has been established.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [33]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
s statements, indicating her personal opinion that a particular witness was telling the truth, constitute vouching.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 The prosecutor}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 s comments in the instant case were clearly in error, amounting to plain error.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
The People concede that it was vouching, claiming only minimal effects.}{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 However, this plain error did not affect substantial rights or prejudice Ue
ki, when viewed in light of other evidence and testimony upon which the jury could have relied in rendering its verdict.}{\insrsid11559203 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 [34]}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 \tab The trial court conviction is hereby }{\b\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 AFFIRMED}{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 .}{\insrsid14223880 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid11559203 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 JANET HEALY WEEKS\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 EDUARDO A. CALVO
\par Associate Justice\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid14223880  }{\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 Associate Justice}{\insrsid14223880 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11559203 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14223880 {\insrsid12725343\charrsid14223880 PETER C. SIGUENZA
\par Chief Justice
\par }}