State v. Keller , 2018 Ohio 4107 ( 2018 )

[Cite as State v. Keller, 2018-Ohio-4107.]
Court of Appeals of Ohio
EIGHTH APPELLATE DISTRICT
COUNTY OF CUYAHOGA
JOURNAL ENTRY AND OPINION
No. 106196
STATE OF OHIO
PLAINTIFF-APPELLEE
vs.
DONALD M. KELLER
DEFENDANT-APPELLANT
JUDGMENT:
AFFIRMED
Criminal Appeal from the
Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas
Case No. CR-16-612751-A
BEFORE: Keough, J., Kilbane, P.J., and Boyle, J.
RELEASED AND JOURNALIZED: October 11, 2018
[Cite as State v. Keller, 2018-Ohio-4107.]
ATTORNEY FOR APPELLANT
Myriam A. Miranda
P.O. Box 40222
Bay Village, Ohio 44140
ATTORNEYS FOR APPELLEE
Michael C. O’Malley
Cuyahoga County Prosecutor
By: Jennifer King
Assistant County Prosecutor
The Justice Center, 9th Floor
1200 Ontario Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44113
[Cite as State v. Keller, 2018-Ohio-4107.]
KATHLEEN ANN KEOUGH, J.:
{¶1} Defendant-appellant, Donald Keller, appeals his convictions for rape.
Finding no merit to the appeal, we affirm.
{¶2} In October 2016, Keller was named in a single-count indictment charging him
with rape, in violation of R.C. 2907.02(A)(1)(c). The matter proceeded to a jury trial
where the following evidence was presented.
{¶3} In the late night of October 18, 2016, the victim, age 23, met up with her
boyfriend, Kyle, and his coworkers, Trish and Keller, age 52, after they got off work.
The group went to Winking Lizard in Mayfield Heights to have a drink. The victim
testified that because it was almost closing time, she ordered two Jameson cocktails;
everyone else had at least one drink. After consuming their drinks, the group members
each drove separately to Cork-N-Bottle in Mayfield Heights. It was approximately 12:30
a.m. on October 19 when they arrived. They proceeded to order more cocktails, drink
some shots of liquor, and share a pizza. The victim testified that between the two
establishments, she consumed a total of seven drinks, including shots. Trish used her
cell phone to video record the group’s interactions and conversations throughout the night
at the bar.
{¶4} The group stayed at Cork-N-Bottle until it closed, and then decided they
would continue the party at Trish’s house in Seven Hills. It was decided that Keller
would drive the victim, and Kyle, the most intoxicated of the group, drove Trish in her
car.
{¶5} Once they arrived at Trish’s house, the group each poured themselves a glass
of vodka. The victim testified that she did not finish her drink because it was straight
vodka. The group also smoked some marijuana. Again, Trish used her cell phone to
video record the group’s conversations while at her house.
{¶6} As the morning hours approached, the party started winding down. Kyle was
lying on one couch, perpendicular to another larger couch where the victim and Keller
were both seated. Although Trish offered for them to sleep in spare bedrooms, each
declined stating that “it was late,” and they “were too comfortable to move.” The victim
testified that she just wanted to pass out and did not find it uncomfortable that Keller was
on the opposite end of the couch. Eventually everyone passed out around 6:00 a.m.
{¶7} The victim testified that she remembered waking up to Keller picking her up
off the floor and placing her back on the couch. She further testified that she
remembered him digitally penetrating her and she tried to kick him away. The victim
stated that she passed back out and woke up to the alarm she had set earlier when riding
in the car with Keller.
{¶8} When she awoke, she saw that Keller and Kyle were still sleeping on the
couches. She noticed that both of her legs were inside one pant leg of her skort (a skirt
with shorts attached underneath), which was not how she was wearing it when she passed
out. She went into the bathroom and noticed that the crotch to the stockings she was
wearing was ripped. The victim testified that when she felt sore in her vaginal area and
it was painful urinating, she knew something was wrong.
{¶9} When she walked back to the living room, she noticed that Keller had left.
She found this peculiar because he was sleeping when she went to the bathroom and was
supposed to drive her and Kyle back to their cars at Cork and Bottle. At that moment,
she believed Keller might have taken advantage of her. The victim woke Kyle to get
their cars because she had to work.
{¶10} Kyle testified that he noticed that the victim was disheveled and appeared as
if she had been crying. After questioning her, the victim finally told him that she thought
Keller “did something” to her. They woke Trish and asked her to give them a ride to
their cars. During the car ride, the victim burst into tears and told Trish that Keller may
have taken advantage of her. Trish contacted the Rape Crisis Center, and based on the
information received, Trish drove to Hillcrest Hospital.
{¶11} Debra Casey, a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE nurse) testified that
she began examining the victim around 12:38 p.m. on October 19, 2016. Casey testified
that she noticed new bruising on the victim’s arms and abrasions on her upper-mid back.
She noted tenderness to the victim’s hip and vaginal area, with abrasions and swelling to
the victim’s genitalia. Casey testified that a sexual assault examination was performed
and a rape kit was assembled, which included the victim’s underwear and swabs taken
from the victim’s body.
{¶12} Christine Hammett, a forensic scientist with the bureau of criminal
investigation (“BCI”), testified that she examined the swabs from the rape kit and
discovered semen on the swabs. Kylie Graham, a forensic scientist with BCI, testified
that she tested both the vaginal swabbing and the victim’s underwear for DNA. During
her first testing of the swabs and clothing, she found the presence of the victim’s DNA
and an unknown male contributor — Kyle was excluded. After Keller submitted a
sample for DNA testing, Graham performed DNA testing again and found, to a
reasonable degree of medical certainty, that Keller was a contributor to the sample taken
from the swabs, and a major contributor to the sample from the victim’s underwear and
labia.
{¶13} Dr. Harold Schueler, chief toxicologist of the Cuyahoga County Medical
Examiner office, testified that he tested the victim’s blood and urine. Dr. Schueler stated
that the victim’s blood sample, which was taken around 10:38 a.m. on October 19, 2016,
had a blood-alcohol content of .04 grams per deciliter. He stated that alcohol
metabolizes at about .02 grams per deciliter every hour. In comparison, he stated that .08
grams per deciliter is the legal limit for driving under the influence of alcohol. Dr.
Schueler also testified that the victim tested positive for THC, a marijuana metabolite.
{¶14} Keller was arrested in December 2016. He testified in his defense. He
stated that he was “pretty intoxicated” during the evening and early morning hours of
October 19, 2016. He admitted that the victim was also “pretty drunk.” He admitted
that there were no flirtatious signs given by the victim during the course of the evening,
he knew the victim and Kyle were in a relationship, and he was dating a coworker.
Nevertheless, he stated that when he was awakened by the victim massaging his
surprisingly exposed penis, he was “shocked,” but engaged in sexual conduct with her.
According to Keller, he did not remember helping the victim get undressed, but she was
naked from the waist down. Despite testifying that he did not “remember much,” he
recalled that moments between them were “heated,” no words were spoken between
them, he believed he saw Kyle move on the couch, and he ejaculated. He stated that he
did not intend for “it” to happen, but “it felt good,” and it was “not a bad thing at the time
— so I did it.” (Tr. 632.)
{¶15} Keller testified that he passed out afterward and awoke around 9:00 a.m.
He stated that on his way to the bathroom, he had to step over the victim, who was asleep
on the floor. He testified that he felt embarrassed by the situation, and just wanted to
“get the hell out of there.” (Tr. 637.) He further testified that he had an appointment
out of town and needed to leave; he did not remember promising the victim and Kyle a
ride back to their cars. Keller denied raping the victim, maintaining that they had
consensual sex.
{¶16} The jury found Keller guilty of rape, and the court sentenced him to six
years in prison. He was also classified as a Tier III sex offender.
{¶17} Keller now appeals, raising five assignments of error, which will be
addressed out of order.
I. Sufficiency of the Evidence
{¶18} In his first assignment of error, Keller contends that the trial court erred in
denying his Crim.R. 29 motion for judgment of acquittal because his conviction is not
supported by sufficient evidence.
{¶19} A Crim.R. 29 motion challenges the sufficiency of the evidence. The test
for sufficiency requires a determination of whether the prosecution met its burden of
production at trial. State v. Bowden, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 92266, 2009-Ohio-3598, ¶
12. An appellate court’s function when reviewing the sufficiency of the evidence to
support a criminal conviction is to examine the evidence admitted at trial to determine
whether such evidence, if believed, would convince the average mind of the defendant’s
guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. State v. Murphy, 91 Ohio St.3d 516, 543, 747 N.E.2d
765 (2001). “‘The relevant inquiry is whether, after viewing the evidence in a light most
favorable to the prosecution, any rational trier of fact could have found the essential
elements of the crime proven beyond a reasonable doubt.’” State v. Walker, 150 Ohio
St.3d 409, 2016-Ohio-829, 82 N.E.3d 1124, ¶ 12, quoting State v. Jenks, 61 Ohio St.3d
259, 574 N.E.2d 492 (1991), paragraph two of the syllabus
{¶20} Keller was charged with rape, in violation of R.C. 2907.02(A)(1)(c), which
prohibits one from engaging in sexual conduct with another who is not his spouse, and the
ability of the victim to resist or consent was substantially impaired because of a mental or
physical condition, and where the individuals knew or had reasonable cause to believe
that the victim’s ability to resist or consent was substantially impaired because of a mental
or physical condition.
{¶21} “A person acts knowingly, regardless of his purpose, when he is aware that
his conduct will probably cause a certain result or will probably be of a certain nature.”
R.C. 2901.22(B). Whether a person acted “knowingly” is inferred from the totality of
the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. State v. Booth, 133 Ohio App.3d
555, 562, 729 N.E.2d 406 (10th Dist.1999).
{¶22} Keller contends on appeal that the state provided insufficient evidence that
the victim was “substantially impaired,” and that he knew, or had reasonable cause to
believe that the victim was substantially impaired and unable to consent before engaging
in sexual conduct. Specifically, Keller contends that the state did not provide sufficient
evidence of substantial impairment because the victim did not show any outward signs of
impairment to alert him of her inability to resist or consent.
{¶23} The Ohio Supreme Court has observed that “[t]he phrase ‘substantially
impaired,’ in that it is not defined in the Ohio Criminal Code, must be given the meaning
generally understood in common usage.” State v. Zeh, 31 Ohio St.3d 99, 103, 509
N.E.2d 414 (1987). “[S]ubstantial impairment must be established by demonstrating a
present reduction, diminution or decrease in the victim’s ability, either to appraise the
nature of his conduct or to control his conduct.” Id. at 103-104.
{¶24} This court has found that voluntary intoxication is a mental or physical
condition that could cause substantial impairment. State v. Jones, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga
No. 101311, 2015-Ohio-1818, ¶ 43, citing State v. Doss, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 88443,
2008-Ohio-449, ¶ 13; In re King, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga Nos. 79830 and 79755,
2002-Ohio-2313, ¶ 22. Keller contends, however, that “intoxication” is not synonymous
with “substantial impairment.” See Doss at ¶ 18. This is true. Accordingly, sexual
conduct with an intoxicated person under Ohio law “becomes criminal when the victim’s
‘ability to resist or consent is substantially impaired by reasons of voluntary
intoxication.’” Jones at id., quoting King at id., citing State v. Martin, 12th Dist. Brown
No. CA99-09-026, 2000 Ohio App. LEXIS 3649 (Aug. 14, 2000). Substantial
impairment can be demonstrated by the testimony of those who have interacted with the
victim. Jones at id., citing State v. Brady, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 87854,
2007-Ohio-1453, ¶ 78.
{¶25} Moreover, this court has held that sleep constitutes a mental or physical
condition that substantially impairs a person from resisting or consenting to sexual
conduct. State v. McCall, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 104479, 2017-Ohio-296, ¶ 6, citing
State v. Jones, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 98151, 2012-Ohio-5737, ¶ 30, citing State v.
Clark, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 90148, 2008-Ohio-3358, ¶ 21 (when a person is asleep, he
or she is not in a mental condition to resist or consent to the sexual conduct).
{¶26} In this case, the victim testified that she was “pretty intoxicated” in the early
morning hours prior to the rape. She testified that she consumed a total of seven
liquor-based alcoholic beverages prior to going to Trish’s house. After arriving at her
friend’s house, she poured herself a glass of vodka, which she sipped (but did not finish)
throughout the night. She stated that the group also smoked two bowls of marijuana.
The victim stated that around 6:00 a.m. she curled up on the couch, struggling to keep her
eyes open. And although her friend offered her and her boyfriend a guest room, she
declined because it was late, she was comfortable, and “just like ready to pass out.”
According to the victim, she is typically a hard sleeper, but especially so if she has been
drinking. Therefore, as Keller drove her to Trish’s house, she set her alarm “in case I
would forget and pass out when I got there.” The victim testified that she does not really
exhibit any indicia of intoxication, such as vomiting, slurring her words, difficulty in
walking, or falling down.
{¶27} Trish testified that the victim was intoxicated when they left Cork-N-Bottle.
She stated that she had been out with the victim on previous occasions when the victim
had been drinking. According to Trish, the victim becomes more social and talkative
after she has been drinking. Kyle, the victim’s boyfriend, also testified that the victim
becomes more talkative and her voice gets louder when she has been drinking; he
believed that the victim was intoxicated.
{¶28} Keller also testified that he knew that the victim had consumed at least five
drinks and smoked marijuana. He further testified that “as far as [he] could tell” the
victim was intoxicated — no more, no less than anybody else” except Kyle. (Tr. 653.)
Keller admitted that there was no flirtation between the two that evening or any other
previous time they hung out that would indicate she was sexually interested in him, but
yet, according to Keller, she initiated sexual activity. By Keller’s account, the victim
actually sexually assaulted him. Nevertheless, he took advantage of the situation and “let
it happen.” (Tr. 654.)
{¶29} Keller cites this court’s decision in State v. Schmidt, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No.
88772, 2007-Ohio-4439, to support his argument that the evidence was insufficient to
prove that the victim was “substantially impaired.” Keller’s reliance is misplaced. In
Schmidt, this court reversed the defendant’s rape conviction because insufficient evidence
was presented to prove that the victim was substantially impaired. The victim in that
case testified that although she consumed many alcoholic beverages, she remembered the
evening, including consenting to other sexual acts with the defendant, but not intercourse.
In this case, unlike in Schmidt, the victim testified that she remembered the entirety of
the evening prior to passing out; however, she did not consent to any sexual contact or
conduct with the defendant. Instead, the victim awoke to Keller digitally penetrating her
and then discovered that he had had sexual intercourse with her.
{¶30} Accordingly, sufficient evidence was presented for a reasonable jury to
conclude that the victim’s ability to resist or consent to sexual conduct was substantially
impaired by (1) being asleep and (2) voluntary intoxication from both alcohol and
marijuana.
{¶31} Alternatively, Keller contends that even if sufficient evidence was presented
that the victim was “substantially impaired,” insufficient evidence was presented that
would apprise him of such impairment. Whether an offender knew or had reasonable
cause to believe the victim was impaired may be reasonably inferred from a combination
of the victim’s demeanor and others’ interactions with the victim. Jones, 8th Dist.
Cuyahoga No. 101311, 2015-Ohio-1818, at ¶ 43, citing State v. Novak, 11th Dist. Lake
No. 2003-L-077, 2005-Ohio-563, ¶ 25. Evidence that should have alerted an offender to
whether a victim was substantially impaired may include evidence that the victim was
stumbling, falling, slurring speech, passing out, or vomiting. King, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga
Nos. 79830 and 79755, 2002-Ohio-2313, at ¶ 20; State v. Hatten, 186 Ohio App.3d 286,
2010-Ohio-499, 927 N.E.2d 632, ¶ 50 (2d Dist.).
{¶32} In support, Keller cites this court’s decision in Doss, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No.
88443, 2008-Ohio-449, and the Second District’s decision in Hatten. In each of these
cases, the appellate court reversed the rape conviction, finding that insufficient evidence
was presented to prove that the defendant knew or had a reasonable belief that the victim
was substantially impaired. However, each of these cases are factually distinguishable.
{¶33} In Doss, this court, on reconsideration, reversed a rape conviction for
insufficient evidence that the defendant knew that the victim was substantially impaired.
In that case, this court found that although the evidence and testimony suggested the
victim may have been substantially impaired, the evidence was insufficient to prove that
the defendant had knowledge of substantial impairment, as opposed to mere intoxication.
Id. at ¶ 20. This court concluded that the victim’s inability to recall the incident was not
evidence of nonconsensual sexual activity or that the defendant knew she may have been
substantially impaired. Id. at ¶ 21. Rather, this court based its decision on the fact that
no evidence was presented refuting the defendant’s account that the sexual conduct was
consensual. Id. at ¶ 23-25. The defendant gave a detailed account of the consensual
nature of the activity, including that the victim was hugging him prior to any sexual
activity, she voluntarily went to the living room with him, and the victim’s actions during
the encounter led the defendant to believe the victim was not substantially impaired. Id.
[Cite as State v. Keller, 2018-Ohio-4107.]
{¶34} In this case, unlike in Doss, there was no indication prior to the sexual
conduct that would have led Keller to believe that the victim was consenting to sexual
activity. Moreover, the victim in Doss did not have any recollection of the sexual
encounter, whereas the victim in this case testified that she fell asleep and awoke to
Keller digitally penetrating her, and picking her up off the floor and putting her back on
the couch. She recalled that she was kicking Keller away as this was occurring. The
victim stated that she had no recollection of Keller engaging in sexual intercourse with
her, but the evidence unequivocally proves that sexual conduct occurred. Additionally,
the victim’s stockings were ripped in the crotch area and when she awoke, she found both
of her legs in one pant-leg of her skort.
{¶35} In Hatten, the Second District found insufficient evidence to prove that the
defendant knew that the victim was substantially impaired because no evidence was
presented that the defendant knew the amount of alcohol consumed by the victim prior to
arriving at the defendant’s home. Hatten, 186 Ohio App.3d 286, 2010-Ohio-499, 927
N.E.2d 632. Additionally, no evidence was offered about the victim’s behavior or
outward signs of intoxication that would have alerted the defendant to the victim’s level
of intoxication.
{¶36} In this case, unlike in Hatten, Keller was present during the entire evening
while the victim consumed alcohol and smoked marijuana. Additionally, Keller drove
the victim to their friend’s house following the night of bar-hopping. He knew that she
under the influence to the point where she should not operate her vehicle, and he
witnessed her slip off a railing at one of the establishments. Once they arrived at their
friend’s house, he was aware that she was drinking a glass of straight vodka and that she
smoked at least two bowls of marijuana with the group. Although the victim was not
stumbling, slurring her words, or vomiting, Keller had reasonable cause to believe that the
victim’s ability to resist or consent was substantially impaired due to her alcohol and drug
consumption. Moreover, Keller was well aware that the victim was sleeping and, in fact,
stated he was “shocked” to wake up and find the victim fondling him.
{¶37} Viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the state, sufficient
evidence was presented for a rational jury to conclude that Keller knew or had reasonable
cause to believe that the victim was substantially impaired to resist or consent to sexual
conduct.
{¶38} Keller’s first assignment of error is overruled.
II. Manifest Weight of the Evidence
{¶39} In contrast to a sufficiency argument, a manifest weight challenge questions
whether the state met its burden of persuasion. Bowden, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 92266,
2009-Ohio-3598, at ¶ 12. A reviewing court “weighs the evidence and all reasonable
inferences, considers the credibility of witnesses and determines whether in resolving
conflicts in the evidence, the jury clearly lost its way and created such a manifest
miscarriage of justice that the conviction must be reversed and a new trial ordered.”
State v. Thompkins, 78 Ohio St.3d 380, 388, 678 N.E.2d 541 (1997). A conviction
should be reversed as against the manifest weight of the evidence only in the most
“exceptional case in which the evidence weighs heavily against the conviction.” Id.{¶40} In his fifth assignment of error, Keller contends that his conviction is against
the manifest weight of the evidence. Rather than explain why his convictions are against
the manifest weight of the evidence, Keller summarily “incorporates the factual assertions
and arguments found in Assignment of Error I.” Keller’s mere incorporation fails to
satisfy the requirement in App.R. 16(A)(7) “that the appellant present an ‘argument with
respect to each assignment of error presented for review[.]’” State v. Cassano, 8th Dist.
Cuyahoga No. 97228, 2012-Ohio-4047, ¶ 2, quoting State v. Sparent, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga
No. 96710, 2012-Ohio-586, ¶ 11. Accordingly, Keller’s assignment of error is
summarily overruled.
III. Admission of Evidence
{¶41} The admission or exclusion of relevant evidence rests within the sound
discretion of the trial court. State v. Morris, 132 Ohio St.3d 337, 2012-Ohio-2407, 972
N.E.2d 528, syllabus. We, therefore, will not disturb the trial court’s judgment absent an
abuse of discretion.
{¶42} Relevant evidence is admissible unless prohibited by an evidentiary rule,
statute, or constitutional provision. Evid.R. 402. Evid.R. 403(A) provides that relevant
evidence is not admissible if its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger
of unfair prejudice, confusion of the issues, or misleading the jury. Although most
evidence presented by the state is prejudicial, not all evidence is unfairly prejudicial.
State v. Skatzes, 104 Ohio St.3d 195, 2004-Ohio-6391, 819 N.E.2d 215, ¶ 107. The court
must balance the prejudicial effect of evidence against its probative value.
{¶43} Pursuant to Crim.R. 52(A), “any error, defect, irregularity, or variance
which does not affect substantial rights shall be disregarded.” To find an error harmless,
a reviewing court must be able to declare a belief that the error was harmless beyond a
reasonable doubt. State v. Lytle, 48 Ohio St.2d 391, 403, 358 N.E.2d 623 (1976). A
reviewing court may overlook an error where the remaining admissible evidence, standing
alone, constitutes “overwhelming” proof of a defendant's guilt. State v. Williams, 6 Ohio
St.3d 281, 290, 452 N.E.2d 1323 (1983). Where “there is no reasonable possibility that
unlawful testimony contributed to a conviction, the error is harmless and therefore will
not be grounds for reversal.” State v. Brown, 65 Ohio St.3d 483, 485, 605 N.E.2d 46(1992); Civ.R. 52(A).
{¶44} Keller contends in his second assignment of error that the trial court erred
when it allowed the jury to hear highly prejudicial and irrelevant evidence. Specifically,
he contends that the trial court erred in allowing the state to present and elicit testimony
regarding (1) Keller’s concerns of being accused of molesting his girlfriend’s daughters,
(2) Keller’s membership in a motorcycle gang; (3) forcible rape when he was not indicted
under that section of the statute; and (4) the use of his age as an indication of misconduct
or inappropriateness when age is not an element of the offense. The challenged
testimony must be reviewed in its relevant context.
A. Fear of Being Accused
{¶45} The victim was cross-examined with multiple cell phone videos taken by
Trish over the course of the evening. Based on the context and line of questioning, the
defense was presumably using these videos to show that the group was getting along and
that the victim was not showing any signs of intoxication. According to the victim,
during one of the videos, Keller was discussing how he treats women. On redirect, the
state questioned the victim about that video and if Keller mentioned his girlfriend or her
children. Defense counsel objected, and a side-bar discussion occurred. After hearing
arguments from both sides about the line of questioning, the trial court overruled the
objection, citing the testimony defense counsel elicited during cross-examination of the
victim.
{¶46} The victim then testified that Keller talked about his girlfriend and how he
was nervous when she would have laborers at her house. According to the victim, Keller
stated that he never wanted to be left alone with his girlfriend’s adolescent-aged
daughters in fear of being accused of “[O]h, he touched me.” (Tr. 300.) When
questioned about her reaction to this comment, the victim stated that she did not think
anything about it and felt that Keller was justified in thinking this way by not wanting to
put himself in those situations. (Tr. at id.) On re-cross examination, the victim clarified
that she never thought Keller acted inappropriately with his girlfriend’s daughters. (Tr.
at 308.)
{¶47} Trish testified on cross-examination about Keller’s girlfriend and her
daughters. According to Trish, Keller made a comment about his girlfriend’s daughters
that made her “uncomfortable.” Over objection, Trish stated that Keller “said, ‘[a]ll I
need is for one of those little c***s to say that I touched them, and then I’m done for,’ or
something like that.” (Tr. 344.) Trish testified that she subsequently told Keller’s
girlfriend that he made this statement.
{¶48} Kyle also testified about Keller’s comments about his girlfriend’s
daughters. He stated that Keller was explaining how he tries “to avoid putting himself in
situations to where — he seemed aware of like her word against his, I don’t know, how
dangerous — I don’t know how — he seemed worried if he put himself in a situation
where she might put her word against his, in any kind of manner.” (Tr. 433.)
According to Kyle, a sexual encounter was “somewhat, inferred.” (Tr. 434.)
{¶49} On direct examination, Keller was questioned about the cell phone videos,
specifically the video that captured his response about his opinion on women. Keller
explained that he did not want to be around his girlfriend’s daughters at all because they
were not comfortable with the fact that their mother was dating someone other than their
father. On cross-examination, the state then posed a series of questions to Keller that,
when reviewing the nature of the questions, were more akin to the prosecutor testifying.
No objection was raised, but Keller denied that he ever sexually assaulted his girlfriend’s
daughters and further denied making the derogatory statement that Trish stated he made.
{¶50} We find that the questioning about Keller’s girlfriend’s daughters was
completely irrelevant. His interactions with his girlfriend’s adolescent-aged daughters
did not provide any probative value to the state’s case against Keller. In fact, because
this case was essentially a credibility contest, the state risked its case on presenting
testimony that was not necessary to prove its case against Keller. Under different
circumstances, this tactic could be reversible error.
{¶51} However, the admission of the testimony was harmless in this case because
the victim was not a minor, and sufficient, relevant evidence and testimony was presented
that Keller engaged in sexual conduct with the victim who was substantially impaired
either by voluntary intoxication or because she was asleep. Moreover, the jury was able
to determine the credibility of both the victim and the defendant because both testified; it
did not need to rely on other testimony to make this assessment. Accordingly, the error
in allowing the testimony was harmless.
B. Motorcycle Gang Affiliation
{¶52} On cross-examination of the victim, counsel played cell phone videos from
Trish’s phone that captured Keller talking about his life. In one of the videos, Keller was
talking about “conforming to different situations.” When questioned about this
statement, the victim testified that Keller was talking about being a chameleon and
conforming to groups — from serving in fine dining restaurants to biker gangs. (Tr.
273.) Trish also testified about the topics of conversation that the group talked about.
In passing, she stated that Kyle asked about Keller’s life — “like gang[-]related activity.”
(Tr. 349.) No further testimony was elicited about this statement. We find these
isolated statements were not unfairly prejudicial. Moreover, Keller testified that when he
was asked about riding motorcycles and whether he was in a gang, he stated that he had
“never been involved [with a gang].” (Tr. 617) Accordingly, the trial court did not
commit prejudicial error in allowing this testimony.
C. Forcible Rape
{¶53} To the surprise of both the state and the defense, the victim testified that she
woke up to Keller digitally penetrating her vagina, and that she remembered kicking and
pushing him away. Keller contends on appeal that the allowance of such testimony was
highly prejudicial because he was not charged with forcible rape.
{¶54} A review of the record demonstrates that once the victim testified to this
encounter, the parties discussed the appropriate remedial measure to ensure that Keller
received a fair trial. After it was determined that a curative instruction would not be
helpful, the trial court denied defense counsel’s request to cross-examine the prosecutor
regarding the late disclosure. No request for a mistrial was made. And because the state
was unaware prior to trial that the victim would testify to this undisclosed sexual conduct,
the state indicated at side-bar that it would not use the victim’s testimony in an improper
manner or to prove its case.
{¶55} Testimony was subsequently elicited from both the SANE nurse and the
investigating detective that the victim never disclosed prior to trial that Keller digitally
penetrated her. The contradictory testimony allowed the jury to determine the victim’s
credibility, which is a function of the trier of fact.
{¶56} Moreover, the state did not allude to the challenged testimony during its
closing argument. However, after the defense reminded the jury that the victim’s
credibility was questionable due to the impeaching testimony, the state reiterated to the
jury that the testimony of digital penetration was not necessary because Keller was not
charged with the offense as a result of that conduct.
{¶57} Accordingly, based on the impeachment testimony presented by other
witnesses for the state and the state’s restraint in using the testimony for an improper
purpose, we find no abuse of discretion in the trial court’s management of this surprise
testimony.
D. Age
{¶58} Keller contends that the state used his age as an indication of misconduct or
inappropriateness even though age is not an element of the offense. Keller testified on
direct examination that he was 52 years of age that evening. He testified that “he is older
than his coworkers so people want to know his story and history.” (Tr. 616.)
Accordingly, any subsequent questions about his age were permissible and prejudicial
error cannot be found because Keller voluntarily told the jury his age. The jury is
entitled to weigh the evidence and make its own conclusions about the sincerity, motives,
or actions of any of the witnesses, including the victim and defendant. Therefore, it was
entitled to consider the ages of the parties in determining credibility.
{¶59} Keller’s second assignment of error is overruled.
IV. Jury Instruction — Flight
{¶60} In his fourth assignment of error, Keller contends the trial court erred by
giving the jury a flight instruction.
{¶61} The giving of jury instructions is within the sound discretion of the trial
court, and we review it for an abuse of discretion. State v. Howard, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga
No. 100094, 2014-Ohio-2176, ¶ 35, citing State v. Martens, 90 Ohio App.3d 338, 629
N.E.2d 462 (3d Dist.1993).
{¶62} In this case, the trial court gave the following instruction to the jury on
flight:.
Testimony has been admitted indicating that the defendant fled the scene.
You are instructed that the fact that the defendant fled the scene does not
raise a presumption of guilt, but it may tend to indicate the defendant’s
consciousness of guilt.
If you find that the facts do not support that the defendant fled the scene or
if you find that some other motive prompted the defendant’s conduct or if
you are unable to decide what the defendant’s motivation was, then you
should not consider this evidence for any purpose.
However, if you find that the facts support that the defendant engaged in
such conduct and if you decided that the defendant was motivated by a
consciousness of guilt, you may but are not required to consider that
evidence in deciding whether the defendant is guilty of the crimes charged.
You alone will determine what weight, if any, to give this evidence.
(Tr. 724.)
{¶63} This court has consistently held that a flight instruction should not be given
when a defendant merely departs from the scene of a crime, unless deliberate flight is
proven, such that the defendant took affirmative steps to avoid detection and
apprehension. See, e.g., State v. Johnson, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 99715,
2014-Ohio-2628, ¶ 110. In fact, the Ohio Jury Instructions provides that when giving the
instruction, the “flight” must be beyond simply not remaining at the scene of the crime —
“that the defendant (fled the [scene] [describe jurisdiction]) (escaped from custody)
(resisted arrest) (falsified his/her identity) (changed appearance) (intimidated a witness)
(attempted to conceal a crime) (describe other conduct).” Ohio Jury Instructions, CR
Section 409.13. These examples are all acts or deliberate conduct of avoiding detection,
apprehension, or evading police. Nevertheless, trial courts are still instructing the jury on
“consciousness of guilt” or “flight” when the evidence only shows mere departure from
the scene.
{¶64} As in the cited cases, the trial court abused its discretion in giving the flight
instruction because Keller leaving Trish’s house in the early morning was not deliberate
flight in the sense of evading police, detection, or apprehension. At no time did Keller
flee to a location where he could not be located. Additionally, Keller continued working
at the same location with the victim’s boyfriend and friend until he was arrested.
{¶65} Despite the error, we cannot say, nor has Keller demonstrated, that the error
was prejudicial. “A reviewing court may not reverse a conviction in a criminal case due
to jury instructions unless it is clear that the jury instructions constituted prejudicial
error.” State v. McKibbon, 1st Dist. Hamilton No. C-010145, 2002-Ohio-2041, ¶ 4,
citing State v. Adams, 62 Ohio St.2d 151, 154, 404 N.E.2d 144 (1980). In order to
determine whether an erroneous jury instruction was prejudicial, a reviewing court must
examine the jury instructions as a whole. State v. Harry, 12th Dist. Butler No.
CA2008-01-013, 2008-Ohio-6380, ¶ 36, citing State v. Van Gundy, 64 Ohio St.3d 230,
233-234, 1992 Ohio 108, 594 N.E.2d 604 (1992). “A jury instruction constitutes
prejudicial error where it results in a manifest miscarriage of justice.” State v. Hancock,
12th Dist. Warren No. CA2007-03-042, 2008-Ohio-5419, ¶ 13. Conversely, “[a]ny
error, defect, irregularity, or variance which does not affect substantial rights shall be
disregarded.” Crim.R. 52(A).
{¶66} The instruction given, although improper, allowed the jury to make its own
conclusions regarding under what circumstances Keller left Trish’s house. The jury
considered the victim’s explanation that Keller left the house after she awoke, even
though he was supposed to take them back to their cars. The jury also heard Keller’s
explanation as to why he left, testimony that he continued going to work where the
victim’s boyfriend also worked, and that he never concealed himself following the rape.
Thus, the instruction did not change the underlying facts of the case; the instruction was
harmless beyond a reasonable doubt.
{¶67} Accordingly, Keller’s fourth assignment of error is overruled.
V. Effective Assistance of Counsel
{¶68} In his third assignment of error, Keller contends that he was denied effective
assistance of counsel because counsel should have requested a mistrial when (1) the
victim recalled and testified at trial about being digitally penetrated and fighting off
Keller, and (2) testimony was given about Keller’s fear of being accused of molesting
children.
[Cite as State v. Keller, 2018-Ohio-4107.]
{¶69} To establish ineffective assistance of counsel, a defendant must demonstrate
that (1) counsel’s performance fell below an objective standard of reasonable
representation, and (2) he was prejudiced by that performance. Strickland v.
Washington, 466 U.S. 668, 687-688, 104 S.Ct. 2052, 80 L.Ed.2d 674 (1984). Prejudice
is established when the defendant demonstrates “a reasonable probability that, but for
counsel’s unprofessional errors, the result of the proceeding would have been different.
A reasonable probability is a probability sufficient to undermine confidence in the
outcome.” Strickland at 694. The failure to prove either prong of the Strickland
two-part test makes it unnecessary for a court to consider the other prong. State v.
Madrigal, 87 Ohio St.3d 378, 388-389, 721 N.E.2d 52 (2000), citing Strickland at 697.
{¶70} Failure to request a mistrial or curative instruction may be deficient
performance of trial counsel. See State v. Brewer, 2d Dist. Montgomery No. 24126,
2012-Ohio-2097, ¶ 15. An appellant alleging ineffective assistance of counsel because
his attorney failed to move for a mistrial must establish that the trial court probably would
have or should have declared a mistrial. State v. Seiber, 56 Ohio St.3d 4, 564 N.E.2d
408 (1990), citing State v. Scott, 26 Ohio St.3d 92, 95-96, 497 N.E.2d 55 (1986). A
mistrial should not be ordered in a criminal case merely because some error or irregularity
has occurred. State v. Jones, 10th Dist. Franklin No. 12AP-1091, 2014-Ohio-674, ¶ 19,
citing State v. Reynolds, 49 Ohio App.3d 27, 550 N.E.2d 490 (2d Dist.1988). It is only
appropriate when the substantial rights of the accused or prosecution are adversely
affected, and a fair trial is no longer possible. Illinois v. Somerville, 410 U.S. 458,
462-463, 93 S.Ct. 1066, 35 L.Ed.2d 425 (1973); State v. Franklin, 62 Ohio St.3d 118,
127, 580 N.E.2d 1 (1991).
{¶71} The victim’s surprise testimony about being digitally penetrated was
potentially prejudicial to both the defense and the state. The victim’s credibility was
undoubtedly put into question; the jury could have determined that the victim either was
fabricating how the sexual conduct occurred, or that her memory was repressed. This
conflict was within the province of the jury to resolve based on the other testimony
presented. Accordingly, it could have been a tactical decision by counsel to continue
with the trial and use the state’s other witnesses to impeach the victim’s testimony and
credibility. See State v. Gooden, 8th Dist. Cuyahoga No. 88174, 2007-Ohio-2371, ¶ 38,
citing State v. Clayton, 62 Ohio St.2d 45, 402 N.E.2d 1189 (1980) (trial tactics and
strategies do not constitute ineffective assistance of counsel).
{¶72} Even though the testimony about Keller’s girlfriend’s daughters was
irrelevant and potentially prejudicial, it was a tactical decision for trial counsel to not
request a mistrial at any time subsequent to the victim’s surprise testimony because had
the mistrial been granted, the state could have reindicted Keller with additional charges of
rape by force — a charge that would be difficult to defend based on the evidence.
Clearly counsel was attempting to limit Keller’s exposure to additional charges and
penalties.
{¶73} Accordingly, we cannot say that counsel’s performance was deficient to
warrant a finding that Keller was deprived of effective assistance of counsel. Keller’s
final assignment of error is overruled.
{¶74} Judgment affirmed.
It is ordered that appellee recover from appellant costs herein taxed.
The court finds there were reasonable grounds for this appeal.
It is ordered that a special mandate issue out of this court directing the common
pleas court to carry this judgment into execution. The defendant’s convictions having
been affirmed, any bail pending appeal is terminated. Case remanded to the trial court
for execution of sentence.
A certified copy of this entry shall constitute the mandate pursuant to Rule 27 of
the Rules of Appellate Procedure.
KATHLEEN ANN KEOUGH, JUDGE
MARY EILEEN KILBANE, P.J., and
MARY J. BOYLE, J., CONCUR