Filed
Washington State
Court of Appeals
Division Two
February 9, 2016
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON
DIVISION II
STATE OF WASHINGTON, No. 46366-1-II
Respondent,
v.
HAROLD SPENCER GEORGE, UNPUBLISHED OPINION
Appellant.
SUTTON, J. – Harold Spencer George appeals his jury trial convictions for four counts of
second degree child rape, one count of second degree child molestation, and the jury’s special
verdict findings on the vulnerable victim aggravator on all five convictions.1 He argues that (1)
the jury instructions did not require that each of the four acts be separate and distinct acts upon
which the jurors could rely for each second degree child rape count, 2 (2) the evidence was
insufficient to support the convictions or the jury’s special verdict findings on the vulnerable
victim aggravator, (3) the State elicited improper opinion testimony from the victim’s father about
1
The jury also found that each of the four second degree child rape offenses were “part of an
ongoing pattern of sexual abuse of the same victim under the age of 18 years manifested by
multiple incidents over a prolonged period of time.” Clerk’s Papers (CP) at 24-27. George does
not challenge this aggravating factor.
2
As noted below, although George characterizes this as a unanimity argument, we construe this
argument as a double jeopardy argument.
No. 46366-1-II
C.D.3 being a victim of sexual abuse which evidence was irrelevant and unfairly prejudicial, and
(4) he received ineffective assistance of counsel due to defense counsel’s failure to (a) timely
appear for court, (b) file a sentencing brief or argue mitigating factors at sentencing, (c) order
transcripts, (d) present a defense or make an opening statement, and (e) interview witnesses. He
also raises numerous issues in a Statement of Additional Grounds for Review4 (SAG).5
We affirm the convictions, but we hold that the evidence was insufficient to support the
jury’s special verdict findings on the vulnerable victim aggravator. Accordingly, we remand and
order the trial court to vacate the vulnerable victim findings. Because the record does not reveal
whether the trial court would have imposed the same exceptional sentences based only on the
remaining aggravating factor findings, we also remand for resentencing. See State v. Weller, 185
Wn. App. 913, 930-31, 344 P.3d 695, review denied, 183 Wn.2d 1010 (2015).
FACTS
I. BACKGROUND
In 2012 to 2013, 12-year-old C.D. and her family were friends with George, his wife, and
his wife’s son and daughter. C.D.’s best friend was George’s step-daughter; C.D. met George
3
Pursuant to General Order 2011-1, the name of the minor(s) will be indicated with initials. Gen.
Order 2011-1 of Division II, In re the Use of Initials or Pseudonyms for Child Witnesses in Sex
Crime Cases (Wash. Ct. App.), http://www.courts.wa.gov/appellate_trial_courts/.
4
RAP 10.10.
5
These issues include: (1) credibility issues, (2) several additional ineffective assistance of trial
counsel claims, (3) a claim of conflict of interest with trial counsel, (4) challenges to the trial
court’s denial of defense counsel’s motion to withdraw, (5) ineffective assistance of appellate
counsel claims, (6) C.D.’s father’s testimony about his conversation with George’s wife and the
related limiting instruction, (7) vindictive prosecution and the amended information, (8)
prosecutorial misconduct, (9) alleged trial court bias, and (10) C.D.’s reference to George’s being
jailed.
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No. 46366-1-II
when his son dated C.D.’s older sister; the two families frequently spent time together at both
homes; and George occasionally stayed overnight at C.D.’s home when he was having marital
problems. C.D. also frequently spent weekends at George’s home visiting his step-daughter.
On or about April 27, 2013, following a conversation with George’s wife, C.D.’s father
asked C.D. “if she had sex with [George].” 3 Verbatim Report of Proceedings (VRP) at 148.
When C.D. disclosed the sexual abuse, her father called the sheriff’s office. During the
investigation that followed, C.D. described engaging in numerous sexual acts with George. A
physical exam by Dr. Yolanda Duralde revealed a “transection of [C.D.’s] hymen” that was
“consistent with penetrating trauma.” 3 VRP at 181, 184.
II. PROCEDURE
A. CHARGES AND AMENDED CHARGES
In October 2013, the State charged George with four counts of second degree child rape
(counts I-IV), and one count of second degree child molestation (count V). The information
alleged that the second degree child rapes occurred between January 1, 2013 and
April 27, 2013, and that the second degree child molestation occurred on or about
December 25, 2012. The State did not allege any aggravating sentencing factors.
More than four months later, immediately before the jury selection started, the trial court
granted the State’s motion to amend the information to include two aggravating sentencing factors
on each charge: (1) “multiple incidents of offenses per victim, or multiple penetrations, or multiple
acts”; and (2) the victim was either “particularly vulnerable or incapable of resistance.” Clerk’s
Papers (CP) at 12-15 (capitalization altered). The State also changed the dates of the second degree
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No. 46366-1-II
child molestation charge to include December 24, 2012. Defense counsel did not object to the
amendment.
B. DEFENSE COUNSEL’S MOTION TO WITHDRAW
A few days before the State amended the information, defense counsel advised the trial
court that George had refused to see her and that he wanted her removed from the case. Defense
counsel, who had also represented George on another case before a different judge, commented
that she had recently been unavailable in that case because her child had been hospitalized, which
caused her to become “way overbooked” in another court. 1 VRP at 5. George had apparently
overheard the prosecutors and judge in the other case discussing his defense counsel, and after he
had been found guilty in that other case, George was reluctant to continue with her as counsel in
this matter. She asserted that her communication with George had broken down, that he had lost
confidence in her abilities, and that the comments he heard in the other courtroom had further
undermined his confidence in her. Defense counsel further stated that she was concerned George
would not pay her for any additional work or expenses or reimburse her for expenses she had
already incurred to prepare for this trial. Finally, she stated that she had not yet prepared a “trial
memorandum” because she did not “put in any more work after Mr. George left [her] yesterday,”
and that if she continued as counsel, she would need a day to prepare a trial brief. 1 VRP at 8.
The trial court noted that (1) defense counsel also had been unable to attend a March 14
hearing in this case when her child was ill and the court had set the matter over to March 21, and
(2) defense counsel had not appeared at the set-over hearing until after George had been returned
to the jail. The trial court denied the motion to withdraw after finding that there was not a sufficient
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No. 46366-1-II
breakdown in communication to justify defense counsel withdrawing and noted that it would not
consider the “financial situation.” 1 VRP at 13.
C. PRELIMINARY MATTERS
During pretrial, defense counsel advised the trial court of George’s pending divorce and
indicated that the defense theory was that George’s estranged wife “orchestrat[ed]” the allegations,
which apparently included not only the allegations in this case but also allegations that George had
sexually abused his step-daughter. 2 VRP at 45. Defense counsel moved to suppress any
testimony by George’s wife about her contact with C.D.’s father, in which George’s wife
apparently told C.D.’s father that a neighbor had seen George with someone who might have been
C.D. Defense counsel argued that any information about George’s wife’s conversation with C.D.’s
father was hearsay and that if the trial court did not suppress this evidence, George would request
a limiting instruction. 2 VRP at 54. Defense counsel also requested that the trial court disallow
any questions about why George’s wife reported this information to C.D.’s father.
The trial court granted the motion in part and limited George’s wife’s testimony to the fact
that a neighbor had told her that she had seen George with a young female, to “explain the nature
of the disclosure.” 2 VRP at 58. The trial court also invited George to propose a limiting
instruction.
Following this ruling, defense counsel reserved the right to call George’s wife as a witness
if the State did not call her. While discussing this issue, the trial court commented that defense
counsel had not filed a witness list. Defense counsel responded that although there were “no direct
witnesses,” she may call George’s wife to rebut C.D.’s testimony. 2 VRP at 62. Defense counsel
reserved her opening statement.
5
No. 46366-1-II
D. STATE’S CASE
1. C.D.’s Testimony
C.D. testified that on Christmas morning in 2012, George was staying at her house and she
was sleeping on the office floor with him; his step-son and his step-son’s friend were also sleeping
in this room. She awoke to George touching the “outside” of her vagina under her clothes with
his hand; the two boys were still asleep. 3 VRP at 98. George touched her for 10 minutes, but she
did not tell him to stop because she was “too drowsy to talk.” 3 VRP at 98. Although her father
and sister were also in the house, she did not tell them about this incident because she was scared.
C.D. then described (1) three specific acts of sexual penetration that occurred in a trailer
behind George’s house while C.D. and her family were attending a “campfire” party, 3 VRP at 99,
(2) multiple acts of intercourse in George’s house, (3) multiple acts of intercourse in George’s
garage, and (4) one act of intercourse in her bedroom. She testified that she first had intercourse
with George in January or February following the Christmas incident.
C.D. also testified that her father had asked her about George after he had talked to
George’s wife. When her father asked her about George, she told him that George had been having
sex with her. Her father called the police. C.D. denied having talked to George’s wife about
George.
On cross-examination and redirect, C.D. further testified that George’s step-son had been
drunk and passed out in a chair in the trailer when George first had sex with her. She stated that
she had attempted to leave the trailer, but George was asleep near the exit so she could not leave.
Defense counsel attempted to impeach C.D. with a prior statement in which C.D. stated
that during the Christmas incident George had just rubbed her leg and had never asserted that he
6
No. 46366-1-II
had touched her vagina. But the State rehabilitated C.D. by establishing that although she had told
defense counsel that George’s contact with her had started on her leg, she had also stated that his
hand then “went up.” 3 VRP at 137. C.D. clarified that she meant he had continued up her leg
until he had touched her vagina.
2. C.D.’s Father’s Testimony
C.D.’s father initially testified that although George had stayed in their home “a couple of
times,” he could not recall if George had stayed with the family on Christmas Eve in 2012. 3 VRP
at 143. C.D.’s father later testified, however, that he was sure George had not spent that Christmas
with them. C.D.’s father also “vaguely” recalled a campfire at George’s home, but he testified that
C.D. was not there.
C.D.’s father further testified that he learned about the sexual abuse around April 27, 2013,
after George’s wife came to his house and told him “something.” 6 3 VRP at 147. After his
conversation with George’s wife, he then asked C.D. if she had had sex with George. After she
responded that George had been having sex with her, C.D.’s father did not ask her any more
questions because he did not “want to know details.” 3 VRP at 148. Instead, he immediately
called the sheriff.
6
Defense counsel later requested a limiting instruction, and the trial court gave the following
limiting instruction:
You heard testimony by [C.D.’s father] that he had a conversation with
[George’s wife]. That testimony is being admitted for the limited purpose of
showing what caused [him] to speak with C.D. It should not be considered for any
other purpose.
CP at 37 (Jury Instruction 6).
7
No. 46366-1-II
Following this testimony, the State asked him if it was fair to say that he did not want
additional details about the incidents because he might not be able to control himself. C.D.’s father
responded, “Yes, my baby girl was a victim of child molestation. If I find out any details, I’m not
in control of myself at that point.” 3 VRP at 149 (emphasis added). George did not object to the
State’s question or C.D.’s father’s response.
C.D.’s father also testified that C.D. was in middle school and was in a special program,
“like an LAP”7 program, because she was “developmentally disabled.”8 He further testified that
C.D. had been held back in third grade because she could not communicate and needed speech
therapy. He also testified that her disability affected her ability to understand “[s]ome things” that
would be obvious to others without additional explanation and that he often had to find different
ways to explain things to her. 3 VRP at 145. For example, he stated that he would sometimes
have to explain in detail the plot of a movie they were watching before she could understand it.
He further testified that he often had to find different ways to explain things to her and that,
although she sometimes functioned like a normal 14-year-old, she often functioned like a 9-year-
old.9
7
A Learning Assistance Program (LAP) is a state funded program for students struggling in basic
skills such as reading and math.
8
Defense counsel did not object to this testimony.
9
In addition, Dr. Duralde also testified that when she had talked to C.D.’s father, he had expressed
concern about C.D. because “[s]he’s a little bit slow developmentally, and she had had speech
therapy in the past.” 3 VRP at 178. Dr. Duralde stated that C.D.’s father could not, however,
“explain what it was exactly how she was slow, but she was getting special classes at school.”
3 VRP at 178.
8
No. 46366-1-II
E. DEFENSE CASE
After the State rested, the trial court asked defense counsel if she wanted to make an
opening statement since she had reserved her opening. Defense counsel stated that she wanted to,
but she had to confer with George first about whether the defense would call his wife to testify.
After consulting George, defense counsel stated that the defense was not going to call any
witnesses. The trial court then refused to allow defense counsel to make an opening statement.
F. JURY INSTRUCTIONS
The trial court provided the jury with separate to-convict instructions for each of the five
charges (counts I-V). For the four second degree child rape charges (counts I-IV), the jury
instructions were identical except for the count number in the first sentence. The trial court also
instructed the jury:
A separate crime is charged in each count. You must decide each count
separately. Your verdict on one count should not control your verdict on any other
count.
CP at 38.
In addition, instruction 13, the unanimity instruction, instructed the jury:
The State alleges that the defendant committed acts of Rape of a Child in
the Second Degree on multiple occasions. To convict the defendant on any count
of Rape of a Child in the Second Degree, one particular act of Rape of a Child in
the Second Degree must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt, and you must
unanimously agree as to which act has been proved. You need not unanimously
agree that the defendant committed all the acts of Rape of a Child in the Second
Degree.
CP at 44. But neither the to-convict instructions nor the unanimity instruction specifically advised
the jury that each count had to be based on a separate and distinct criminal act. George did not
object to any of these instructions.
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No. 46366-1-II
G. CLOSING ARGUMENT
In its closing argument, the State discussed the to-convict instructions for the four charges
of second degree child rape. It argued that although the instructions were “identical,” there were
four charges because the State had “to prove each one of [these] elements on each four [sic]
counts.” 4 VRP at 235. It then argued that C.D. had testified to the rapes “occur[ing] in four
different locations,” specifically, in the trailer behind his residence, in her bedroom, in George’s
garage, and in his house. It also argued that because C.D. testified that George raped her multiple
times in some of these locations, each of these individual rapes could also be the basis for a
different count.
But the State emphasized that the jury had to be unanimous as to the act that constituted
each charged offense:
Now, one of the instructions I want to talk to you [sic] here is Instruction
No. 13. Instruction 13 is talking about the fact that I’ve charged four counts, the
victim has described 25 counts. When you, as jurors, need to deliberate and decide
on this, you can pick which one of those you want to find beyond a reasonable
doubt. You just have to be unanimous that it’s this incident. So if you wanted to
say the trailer is three separate incidents because it happened three separate times
with gaps in between, then that could be Count I, II, and III. As long as you’re
unanimous on each one of those, then that could be what you’re deciding. If you’re
saying, hey, we’re going to take the trailer, her house, and defendant’s house,
defendant’s garage, each one of those is a separate time, that’s fine. You, as jurors,
get to decide that, as long as when you’re deciding that, you’re unanimous as to
how you’re going to decide each count coming out.
What she described to you is 25 approximate counts; three times separately
happening in the trailer. She describes 12 times in the defendant’s house. She says
about half are in the guest room, about half are in the defendant’s room, and about
ten times in the garage when she was brought over there to visit her friend . . . .
Regardless of how you decide, there are at least four counts, and there are way more
than four counts here the defendant is guilty. He repetitively raped [C.D.].
4 VRP at 237-38.
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No. 46366-1-II
Defense counsel argued that (1) Dr. Duralde’s testimony only showed that there was a rare
tear, a “transection in the hymen,” not what or who had caused this injury, 4 VRP at 245, (2) C.D.’s
father’s opinion was based solely on C.D.’s statements to him, (3) C.D.’s father had denied George
stayed overnight with C.D.’s family on Christmas 2012, (4) C.D.’s father testified that on another
occasion, although he recalled a “campfire” at George’s residence, C.D. was not there that night,
4 VRP at 247, (5) C.D.’s testimony was not “believable,” 4 VRP at 248-49, and (6) being held
back a year in school, having a lisp, or being in a special program in school was not enough to
prove C.D. was particularly vulnerable.
In rebuttal, the State responded that C.D.’s behaviors, such as not crying out during the
rapes and not seeking help from the others who were in the room during some of the incidents,
were understandable because she could have been scared and because she did not always function
as a 12-year-old child would be expected to function. The State also argued that C.D.’s father
could have been mistaken about whether George stayed over on Christmas 2012 because of his
(C.D.’s father’s) “24/7” work schedule; the State also noted that defense counsel had only asked
about Christmas Day, not Christmas Eve. 4 VRP at 257.
H. VERDICT AND SENTENCING
The jury found George guilty of all five charges. As to all five offenses, the jury also found
that George knew or should have known that C.D. was particularly vulnerable or incapable of
resistance. As to the four second degree child rape offenses, the jury also found that those crimes
were part of an ongoing pattern of sexual abuse of the same victim under 18 years of age
manifested by multiple incidents over a prolonged period of time.
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No. 46366-1-II
Defense counsel was ill and unable to attend the May 2, 2014 sentencing hearing; the trial
court set the hearing over to May 9. On May 9, defense counsel sent standby counsel because she
was in court on another case in another county. The trial court concluded that standby counsel
was not properly prepared for the sentencing hearing, so it set the hearing over to the afternoon of
May 12. On May 12, defense counsel appeared late. Defense counsel asked the trial court to not
consider her scheduling issues when imposing the sentence; the trial court assured her that it would
not.
Based on George’s offender score of 9+ on each count, and the jury’s special verdicts on
the aggravating sentencing factors, the trial court imposed an exceptional sentence of 420 months
to life on each of the second degree child rape convictions. It imposed a standard range sentence
of 116 months on the child molestation conviction.10 The trial court entered written findings of
fact and conclusions of law on the jury’s special verdict findings on the aggravating sentencing
factors for the exceptional sentences. The trial court did not comment on the record or in its written
findings as to whether it would have imposed the same exceptional sentences based solely on the
“ongoing patterns of sexual abuse” aggravating factor findings.
George appeals his convictions and the jury’s special verdict findings on the vulnerable
victim aggravator.
ANALYSIS
George argues that (1) the jury instructions for the second degree child rape charges did
not clearly distinguish the acts upon which the jurors could rely for each count, (2) the evidence
10
It ran the sentences on the convictions concurrent to each other, but it ran the 420 month
minimum sentences on the rape convictions consecutive to the sentences imposed in another case.
12
No. 46366-1-II
was insufficient to support any of the convictions or the jury’s vulnerable victim findings, (3) the
State elicited improper opinion testimony and this evidence was irrelevant and unfairly prejudicial,
and (4) he received ineffective assistance of counsel on several grounds. He raises additional
issues in his SAG.
I. DOUBLE JEOPARDY ISSUE
George argues that he was potentially denied unanimous jury verdicts on the second degree
child rape charges (counts I-IV) because instruction 13 (the unanimity instruction) and the to-
convict instructions for those counts alleged that the offenses occurred in the same time periods
and failed to clearly distinguish the acts that the jury was to consider for each count.
Although George presents this argument as a “unanimity” issue, it is more properly
characterized as a double jeopardy issue because his core argument is that, given the instructions
here, there is a possibility that the jury could have convicted him of multiple counts of second
degree child rape based on a single criminal act. See State v. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d 646, 661-66, 254
P.3d 803 (2011) (characterizing this same argument as a double jeopardy argument); see also State
v. Berg, 147 Wn. App. 923, 930, 198 P.3d 529 (2008), overruled in part by Mutch, 171 Wn.2d
at 663-64. Accordingly, we address this issue as a double jeopardy argument. Presuming, but not
deciding, that this issue was preserved for review, this argument fails. See RAP 2.5(a).
A. LEGAL STANDARDS
The double jeopardy clauses of the federal and state constitutions protect defendants from
being “punished multiple times for the same offense.” State v. Linton, 156 Wn.2d 777, 783, 132
P.3d 127 (2006); see U.S. Const. amend. V; Wash. Const. art. I, § 9. We review double jeopardy
claims de novo. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 661-62.
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No. 46366-1-II
When the State presents evidence of multiple acts that could constitute more than one of
the crimes charged, the trial court should instruct the jury that each count must be based on a
separate and distinct act. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 663. If the instructions do not inform the jury that
each count must be based on a separate and distinct act, then we must determine whether the
evidence, arguments, and instructions made the separate act requirements “‘manifestly apparent to
the jury.’” Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 664 (emphasis omitted) (quoting Berg, 147 Wn. App. at 931).
B. NO DOUBLE JEOPARDY
This case is similar to Mutch. In Mutch our Supreme Court addressed whether jury
instructions similar to those at issue here in that they failed to specifically advise the jury that each
charged count arose from a “separate and distinct” act and whether this inadequacy created a risk
that the jury could have convicted Mutch of five counts of rape based only on a single criminal
act. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 662. Although the court determined that these instructions were
inadequate, it clarified that this deficiency alone was insufficient to justify relief.11 Mutch, 171
Wn.2d at 663-64. Instead, the court held that the deficient instructions must be examined in the
context of the record as a whole to determine if Mutch was actually subjected to multiple
punishments for the same offense. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 663-64.
11
Distinguishing previous case law, the court noted that a showing that a defendant had potentially
received multiple punishments for the same offense was not sufficient to establish that the
convictions violated the rule against double jeopardy. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 662-63 (citing State
v. Carter, 156 Wn. App. 561, 567, 234 P.3d 275 (2010), overruled in part by Mutch, 171 Wn.2d
at 663-64; Berg, 147 Wn. App. at 934-35). Instead, the court held that the defendant has to
establish, based on the record as a whole, that he or she was actually subjected to multiple
punishments for the same offense. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 663.
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No. 46366-1-II
The court in Mutch then held that given the charging information, the testimony, and the
arguments in the case, it was “manifestly apparent” that these instructions “did not actually effect
a double jeopardy violation.” Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 665. It specifically noted that (1) the
information had charged Mutch with “five counts based on allegations that constituted five
separate units of prosecution,” (2) the victim “testified to five separate episodes of rape,” and the
focus at trial was not centered on the number of rapes but rather whether there was consent and
the victim’s credibility, (3) the jury was given five to-convict instructions, and (4) “[t]he State
discussed all five episodes of rape in its arguments.” Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 665.
The facts here are strikingly similar to those in Mutch. The jury instructions were
substantially similar to those in Mutch. 12 Thus, we agree that these instructions failed to
specifically advise the jury that each charged count arose from a “separate and distinct” act, and
created a risk that the jury could have convicted George of four counts of second degree child rape
based only on a single criminal act. But, as in Mutch, an examination of the record as a whole
fails to establish an actual double jeopardy violation.
First, the amended information alleged four counts of second degree child rape based on
four separate units of prosecution. Second, C.D. testified to at least four separate episodes of rape,
and the trial focused on C.D.’s credibility and reliability as a witness, not the number of incidents.
Third, the jury was given separate to-convict instructions for each of the four counts of second
degree child rape. And, fourth, perhaps most importantly, in its closing argument the State
12
The instructions here are essentially identical to the instructions at issue in Berg. Berg, 147 Wn.
App. at 934-35. The Berg court held that these instructions were inadequate because they
potentially exposed the defendant to multiple punishments for the same offense. 147 Wn. App. at
935-37. The Mutch court did not question this analysis. Mutch, 171 Wn.2d at 662-63.
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No. 46366-1-II
discussed each of the separate incidents of rape, related each incident to a separate charge, and
never suggested that the jury could use the same incident to support more than one charge. Given
this, we hold that the record as a whole made it manifestly apparent to the jury that each count
represented a separate act, and George has not established that he was subjected to multiple
punishments for a single criminal act. Accordingly, this argument fails.
II. SUFFICIENCY ISSUES
George next argues that the evidence was insufficient to support the convictions or the
vulnerable victim findings. We hold that the evidence is sufficient to support the convictions. But
we further hold that the evidence was insufficient to support the vulnerable victim findings.
A. STANDARD OF REVIEW
Evidence to support a conviction is sufficient if, when viewed in the light most favorable
to the State, “any rational fact finder could have found the essential elements of the crime beyond
a reasonable doubt.” State v. Engel, 166 Wn.2d 572, 576, 210 P.3d 1007 (2009). We apply this
same standard when reviewing a jury’s special verdict finding the existence of an aggravating
sentencing factor. State v. Chanthabouly, 164 Wn. App. 104, 142-43, 262 P.3d 144 (2011). If the
evidence is insufficient to support the conviction, we must reverse and remand for the trial court
to vacate the conviction or enhancement and dismiss the charge or enhancement with prejudice.
Engel, 166 Wn.2d at 581; State v. DeVries, 149 Wn.2d 842, 845, 72 P.3d 748 (2003).
B. CONVICTIONS
George argues that “[a]lthough C.D. testified about various incidents where Mr. George
put his penis in her vagina, there are insufficient details for the jury to find unanimously and
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No. 46366-1-II
beyond a reasonable doubt that each incident occurred during the time specified.” 13 Br. of
Appellant at 38-39 (citing 3 VRP at 93-115). Thus, George appears to contend only that the State
failed to prove the crimes occurred within the relevant charging periods. We disagree.
The to-convict instructions on the second degree child rape charges required the jury to
find that the rapes occurred between January 1, 2013 and April 27, 2013. And the to-convict
instruction on the second degree child molestation charge required the jury to find that the
molestation occurred between December 24, 2012 and December 25, 2012. C.D.’s testimony that
(1) George touched her vagina when he stayed overnight with the family on Christmas Eve 2012,
and (2) C.D.’s testimony that the first rapes occurred in January or early February 2013, and her
father’s testimony that he learned of the rapes on or about April 27, 2013, is sufficient to support
the conclusion that each of the rapes occurred during the charged period. Thus, George’s challenge
to the sufficiency of the evidence to support these convictions fails.
C. VULNERABLE VICTIM FINDINGS
George next argues that the evidence is insufficient to support the jury’s findings that C.D.
was particularly vulnerable or incapable of resistance. He asserts that the evidence was too vague
to establish particular vulnerability and that there was no evidence that he was aware of C.D.’s
developmental disability. We agree that there was no evidence that George knew or should have
known of C.D.’s developmental disability.
13
In this same section of his brief, George also asserts that because the State failed to elect which
act supported which second degree child rape charge, it is impossible to distinguish the four
charges. We address this issue above as a double jeopardy argument.
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No. 46366-1-II
To prove the aggravating sentencing factor that a victim is particularly vulnerable or
incapable of resistance, the State must prove that the defendant “knew or should have known” of
that vulnerability or incapacity. RCW 9.94A.535(3)(b). The special verdict instructions in this
case reflected this requirement.
The evidence at trial established that C.D. was developmentally disabled. Specifically, her
father testified that C.D. had been held back in third grade because she could not communicate
and needed speech therapy; that she sometimes had difficulty understanding things most people
can understand without explanation; and that, although she sometimes acted like a normal 12-year-
old child, she sometimes functioned at the level of a 9-year-old. Given these facts, a reasonable
jury could have concluded that C.D.’s developmental issues made her more vulnerable than a
normal 12-year-old child.14
But the record contains no evidence from which a reasonable juror could conclude that
George knew or should have known about C.D.’s developmental disability. There was no evidence
that anyone told George about C.D.’s disability. And, although C.D. spent time with George and
his family, there was nothing in the record describing how obvious her developmental disability
was in everyday interactions rather than in an academic or family setting. Nor is there anything
apparent in the record suggesting that C.D.’s developmental disability was obvious when she
14
We defer to the jury’s factual determinations regarding witness testimony. State v. Camarillo
115 Wn.2d 60, 71, 794 P.2d 850 (1990).
18
No. 46366-1-II
testified. Accordingly, we hold that the evidence was insufficient to support the vulnerable victim
findings.15
III. C.D.’S FATHER’S TESTIMONY
George next argues that the State elicited improper witness opinion testimony from C.D’s
father which testimony was irrelevant under ER 402 and unfairly prejudicial under ER 403. After
C.D.’s father testified that C.D. disclosed the sexual abuse to him, the State asked him why he did
not want to know the details and he responded that it was because his daughter was “a victim of
child molestation.” 3 VRP at 149. Because George did not object to this testimony on any ground,
George must first show that these issues are reviewable under RAP 2.5(a)(3) as manifest
constitutional errors.
We are not generally required to consider issues raised for the first time on appeal.
RAP 2.5(a); State v. Kalebaugh, 183 Wn.2d 578, 583, 355 P.3d 253 (2015). George may, however,
raise a claim of error for the first time on appeal if it is a manifest error affecting a constitutional
right. RAP 2.5(a)(3); Kalebaugh, 183 Wn.2d at 583. To establish that the alleged error was a
manifest error affecting a constitutional right, George must (1) identify a constitutional error and
(2) show how the alleged error actually affected his rights at trial. Kalebaugh, 183 Wn.2d at 583.
If the error is a manifest constitutional error, “the error is nonetheless subject to harmless error
review.” State v. Sublett, 176 Wn.2d 58, 78, 292 P.3d 715 (2012) (citing State v. O’Hara,
167 Wn.2d 91, 98-99, 217 P.3d 756 (2009)).
15
In his SAG, George also claims that the evidence was insufficient to support the vulnerable
victim findings because there was no evidence that C.D. had a developmental disability and that
some of the evidence supporting this factor was “hearsay.” SAG at 17. Because we reverse the
vulnerable victim findings, we do not address these SAG claims.
19
No. 46366-1-II
George argues that the State’s questions and C.D.’s father’s testimony were improper
because the reason C.D.’s father did not seek additional details from C.D. was not relevant under
ER 402 and was unfairly prejudicial under ER 403. But ER 402 and 403 arguments are not of
constitutional magnitude, so we decline to review them. In re Pers. Restraint of Duncan,
167 Wn.2d 398, 408, 219 P.3d 666 (2009); State v. Elmore, 139 Wn.2d 250, 283, 985 P.2d 289
(1999) (citing State v. Chase, 59 Wn. App. 501, 508, 799 P.2d 272 (1990)).
In contrast, vouching for the credibility of a witness, which is essentially opinion testimony
on an ultimate issue of fact that should be reserved for the jury, can violate a defendant’s
constitutional right to a jury trial because it is essentially opinion testimony on an ultimate issue
of fact that should be reserved for the jury. State v. Demery, 144 Wn.2d 753, 759, 30 P.3d 1278
(2001). But “[a]dmission of witness opinion testimony on an ultimate fact, without objection, is
not automatically reviewable as a ‘manifest’ constitutional error.” State v. Kirkman, 159 Wn.2d
918, 936, 155 P.3d 125, 130 (2007). Our Supreme Court has held that a “nearly explicit statement
by the witness that the witness believed the accusing victim” is required before a manifest error
can be found. Kirkman, 159 Wn.2d at 936. But even assuming that the question and statement
here were sufficiently explicit, George still does not show that this was a manifest constitutional
error because “manifestness” requires the appellant to establish actual prejudice and George fails
to meet this standard. Kalebaugh, 183 Wn.2d at 584; Kirkman, 159 Wn. 2d at 935.
George argues that the State’s question and C.D.’s father’s response were the equivalent
of C.D.’s father testifying that he believed George was guilty. Although this would not be an
unreasonable characterization of the testimony, the fact that C.D.’s father immediately contacted
the police and took C.D. to the hospital for an examination conveyed essentially the same message
20
No. 46366-1-II
to the jury. Because this question and testimony conveyed no more of an opinion than other facts
that were already before the jury, George does not show that they caused any actual prejudice.16
IV. INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL
George next raises six ineffective assistance of counsel claims. These arguments fail.
A. STANDARD OF REVIEW
To demonstrate ineffective assistance of counsel, a defendant must show that (1) defense
counsel’s representation was deficient and (2) the deficient performance prejudiced the defendant.
State v. Hicks, 163 Wn.2d 477, 486, 181 P.3d 831 (2008) (acknowledging that this state has
adopted the standards from Strickland v. Wash., 466 U.S. 668, 104 S. Ct. 2052, 80 L. Ed. 2d 674
(1984)). Representation is deficient if it falls below an objective standard of reasonableness based
on consideration of all the circumstances. Hicks, 163 Wn.2d at 486; State v. McFarland,
127 Wn.2d 322, 334-35, 899 P .2d 1251 (1995). Prejudice occurs when but for counsel’s deficient
performance, the result of the proceeding would have been different. State v. Brousseau,
172 Wn.2d 331, 352, 259 P.3d 209 (2011). If a party fails to satisfy either prong of the test for
ineffective assistance of counsel, we need not consider both prongs. State v. Foster, 140 Wn.
App. 266, 273, 166 P.3d 726 (2007). Counsel’s reasonable tactical decisions cannot be the basis
of an ineffective assistance of counsel claim. See State v. Grier, 171 Wn.2d 17, 44, 246 P.3d
1260 (2011), cert. denied, ___ U.S. ___, 135 S. Ct. 153 (2014).
16
George also argues that he received ineffective assistance of counsel because defense counsel
failed to object to the State’s question or C.D.’s father’s response. This argument also fails because
George does not establish prejudice. State v. Hicks, 163 Wn.2d 477, 486, 181 P.3d 831 (2008) (to
establish ineffective assistance of counsel, appellant must show both deficient performance and
resulting prejudice).
21
No. 46366-1-II
B. NO INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL
First, George argues that defense counsel provided ineffective assistance of counsel
because she repeatedly missed or was late to court hearings. Although the record shows that
counsel either missed or was late to several hearings, nothing in the record shows that any prejudice
resulted—in fact, the trial court merely continued the hearings and held them when counsel was
present. Because George does not establish any prejudice based on counsel’s failure to appear or
appearing late for hearings, this argument fails.17
Second, George argues that defense counsel failed to provide a sentencing brief or any
argument at sentencing to support a lesser sentence. Although the record shows that defense
counsel did not file a sentencing brief, the trial court allowed defense counsel to present her
sentencing recommendation orally, so her failure to file a sentencing brief was not prejudicial.
Additionally, even though defense counsel did not present information about George’s “life” or
present any mitigating factors, George does not say what specific information could have been
helpful to him and there is no such information in the record before us. McFarland,
127 Wn.2d at 335. Because George has not established any prejudice on this record, this argument
fails.
Third, George argues that defense counsel was unprepared for trial because she did not
timely obtain or authenticate the transcripts for the pretrial interviews with C.D. or C.D.’s father
because of the cost. But the record shows that defense counsel obtained and used these transcripts
17
We note that the trial court also specifically mentioned that it was not considering any of defense
counsel’s absences or scheduling issues at sentencing and it complimented her on how she had
tried the case.
22
No. 46366-1-II
to attempt to impeach C.D. and C.D.’s father. Thus, George does not show how any delay in
obtaining or authenticating the transcripts was prejudicial and this argument fails.
Fourth, George argues that defense counsel was unprepared for trial because she did not
file a trial brief and had not prepared any motions in limine. George does not specify how the trial
brief would have altered the outcome, nor does he discuss what potentially successful motions in
limine defense counsel should have made. Accordingly, this argument also fails.
Fifth, George argues that defense counsel did not present a defense or make an opening
statement, despite having reserved her opening statement. Defense counsel presented a defense
based on the evidence at trial. She argued in closing argument that C.D.’s story was not believable
given the nature of her testimony, the contradictory testimony from C.D.’s father, and the failure
of the forensic evidence to tie George to any of the offenses. If there was additional evidence or
testimony available that could have supported defense counsel’s arguments or supported a
different defense, that evidence is outside the record and we cannot consider it. McFarland,
127 Wn.2d at 335. Furthermore, the record shows that it was a reasonable tactical decision for
defense counsel to reserve her opening statement until after the State presented its evidence
because defense counsel was unsure which witnesses she would present to rebut the State’s case
until after the State rested and she had the opportunity to confer with George. See In re Pers.
Restraint of Davis, 152 Wn.2d 647, 715. 101 P.3d 1 (2004) (defense counsel’s reservation of right
to make opening statement and ultimately deciding not to present one was a reasonable tactical
decision). Accordingly, this argument fails.
Sixth, George argues that defense counsel failed to investigate witnesses, specifically
George’s step-son and the step-son’s friend, or seek a missing witness instruction. But whether
23
No. 46366-1-II
counsel attempted to locate these witnesses or whether they were equally available to both parties18
is outside the record, so this argument fails. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
V. STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL GROUNDS FOR REVIEW
George also presents several pro se arguments in his SAG.
A. CREDIBILITY AND CREDIBILITY RELATED ISSUES
George appears to contend that C.D.’s testimony was inconsistent and was not credible or
reliable.19 Credibility issues are reserved for the trier of fact and we will not review them on
appeal. State v. Camarillo 115 Wn.2d 60, 71, 794 P.2d 850 (1990).
George also contends that the record shows the State “coached” C.D. He asserts that the
fact C.D. asked counsel to “rephrase” a question demonstrates she was coached. It is pure
speculation that C.D. was coached by the State. This argument fails.
B. ADDITIONAL INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF COUNSEL CLAIMS
George raises additional claims of ineffective assistance of defense counsel.
1. Lack of Competency Hearing
George contends that he received ineffective assistance of counsel because defense counsel
did not request a competency hearing or argue any mental health mitigating factors at sentencing.
Because the record does not contain any information relevant to George’s alleged competency or
18
The missing witness doctrine applies only if the potential testimony is material and not
cumulative and if the missing witness is particularly under the control of one party rather than
being equally available to both parties. State v. Montgomery, 163 Wn.2d 577, 598-99, 183 P.3d
267 (2008).
19
George also mentions child hearsay statements. But his argument focuses on C.D.’s testimony,
not any hearsay statements. Thus, we do not address this issue as a child-hearsay issue.
24
No. 46366-1-II
mental health issues, this argument fails on this record. To the extent George is referring to matters
outside the record, we cannot address them on direct appeal. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
2. Failure to Object to State’s Closing Argument
George further contends that defense counsel failed to object to portions of the State’s
closing argument. He appears to refer to the State’s rebuttal argument addressing the incident in
the trailer.
C.D. testified that the first rape occurred in a trailer when she, her sister, and her father
were at George’s home for a gathering involving a campfire. But her father testified that he
“vaguely” recalled attending a gathering involving a campfire at George’s home, that C.D. was
not at that gathering, and that he would not have left her alone with George if she had been there.
3 VRP at 161. Apparently based on that testimony, defense counsel argued in closing argument,
“[C.D.’s father] also testified that there was no campfire that Mr. George was at alone with [C.D.].”
4 VRP at 247.
In response to this argument, the State argued:
One of the things [defense] counsel pointed out as well. [C.D.’s father] said
that he never her left [sic] alone at the campfire. I’m not even sure that when
counsel asked that question he knew what campfire they were talking about or
when, but what [C.D.’s father] did tell you is that every weekend or about every
weekend [C.D.] would spend the weekend over at her friend [George’s step-
daughter’s] house because they are best friends. That makes sense. Best friends
do that.
Obviously, the time of the trailer she’s describing one of the times she’s
over there on a weekend, and [C.D.’s father] says that she was over there and spent
the night on the weekend. So there was obvious times that she would have been at
the house based on that, which corroborates what [C.D.] was telling you; that she
was over there, that she had interactions with the defendant.
4 VRP at 256. Defense counsel did not object to this argument.
25
No. 46366-1-II
George appears to contend that defense counsel should have objected to this portion of the
State’s rebuttal argument because (1) it was not an accurate representation of the evidence, and (2)
the assertion that C.D. was mistaken and the campfire gathering could have been a different one
than C.D.’s father attended was a “false statement” that amounted to vouching for C.D.’s
credibility. We disagree.
First, defense counsel’s assertion that C.D.’s father testified there was no campfire
gathering at which George was alone with C.D. was not accurate. C.D.’s father did not testify that
there was never any campfire gathering at which C.D was alone with George. Instead, C.D.’s
father testified that he vaguely recalled a campfire gathering at George’s home, but C.D. was not
present at that event and he would not have left her alone with George if she had been there. Thus,
the State’s rebuttal argument stating that it was not sure when C.D.’s counsel asked C.D.’s father
whether C.D. had ever been alone with George at a campfire gathering was an accurate reflection
of the record.
Second, the State’s argument that C.D. and her father could have been talking about two
different events was a reasonable inference from the record based on the evidence given the
frequency of C.D.’s visits to George’s residence to see her friend. And counsel are permitted
latitude to argue reasonable inferences from the record in their closing arguments. State v.
Dhaliwal, 150 Wn.2d 559, 577, 79 P.3d 432 (2003). Thus, any objection to this testimony on these
grounds would have failed. Accordingly, this argument has no merit.
George further contends that defense counsel should have objected to the State’s argument
that C.D.’s inconsistent statements should not affect her credibility and its attempts to “discredit”
C.D.’s father’s testimony. SAG at 33. He appears to refer to the State’s attempts to explain some
26
No. 46366-1-II
of C.D.’s behaviors, such as not crying out during the rapes, and to explain why C.D.’s father’s
testimony might contradict some of C.D.’s testimony. These were all reasonable arguments based
on the evidence. Accordingly, this argument fails.
3. Failure to Investigate
George also contends that defense counsel failed to investigate several matters. The
specific matters George alleges defense counsel did not investigate are either unclear, are outside
the record, or relate to issues we have addressed above. Accordingly, we do not further address
this argument. See RAP 10.10(c) (SAG must inform the court of the nature and occurrence of the
alleged errors); McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
4. Failures to Object
George further argues that defense counsel failed to object throughout the trial. We
disagree.
First, citing to several pages of the report of proceedings, George contends defense counsel
failed to object to the State’s leading questions. Although George cites to several pages of the
verbatim report of proceedings, each of these pages contain several questions and George does not
specify which questions he claims are leading. Accordingly, we do not address this issue further.
RAP 10.10(c).
Second, George argues that defense counsel’s failure to object to C.D.’s testimony that the
sex stopped hurting because George was in jail demonstrates ineffective assistance of counsel. But
defense counsel successfully moved to strike this testimony, so this claim fails.
Third, George contends that defense counsel failed to object to C.D.’s father’s testimony
that C.D. was in an “LAP program” because she was developmentally disabled. SAG at 32.
27
No. 46366-1-II
George argues that defense counsel should have objected on the basis of lack of foundation.20 To
establish ineffective assistance of counsel for failure to object, George must show that the objection
would have been sustained. See McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335. There is nothing in the record
that shows that such an objection would have been successful.21 Accordingly, this argument fails.
Furthermore, to the extent George is referring to matters outside the record, we cannot address
them on direct appeal. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
Fourth, George appears to contend that defense counsel failed to object to the fact Dr.
Duralde somehow considered his “criminal history” when making her report about the condition
of C.D.’s hymen. SAG at 32. There is nothing in the record suggesting that Dr. Duralde
considered George’s criminal history. This argument fails.22 Furthermore, to the extent George
is referring to matters outside the record, we cannot address them on direct appeal. McFarland,
127 Wn.2d at 335.
20
He also argues that defense counsel should have objected to this testimony because C.D.’s father
“misstated what that type of program is.” SAG at 32. But he cites to an appendix that is not part
of the trial court record to support this argument. Because we do not consider evidence outside
the trial court record, we decline to address this issue. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
21
Because it is not part of the record, we do not consider the document that George attached to his
SAG. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
Again, we do not consider George’s appendices because they are not part of the record.
22
McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
28
No. 46366-1-II
5. Failure to Admit Exhibits
George claims that defense counsel failed to admit certain “crucial exhibits” that the jury
should have been allowed to review. SAG at 33. First, he cites to the trial court’s oral instruction
advising the jury that exhibits that are admitted will be available to them in the jury room,
apparently to suggest that this instruction demonstrates there were exhibits that should have been
available to the jury during deliberations. But this instruction merely informs the jury that there
may be exhibits which are admitted which will be available to them during deliberations. It does
not establish that the jury was not allowed to view any of the admitted exhibits during
deliberations.
Second, he cites to the jury’s question during deliberations asking to see “the transcript of
[C.D.’s father’s] testimony,” to imply that defense counsel should have ensured this document was
admitted. VRP (Apr. 2, 2014) at 3. But this transcript was used only to impeach C.D.’s father,
and the transcript was not admissible as substantive evidence. See ER 613. He fails to prove his
counsel was deficient in not moving to admit the transcript.
6. Failure to Challenge State’s Argument at Sentencing
George next contends that defense counsel failed to challenge some unspecified statements
by the State, which he asserts are “unfounded,” during the sentencing hearing. SAG at 33. George
does not identify the exact statements he is challenging; accordingly, we do not consider this issue.
RAP 10.10(c).
7. Failure to Object to Error on Verdict Form
Finally, George further contends that defense counsel failed to challenge an error on a
verdict form. George cites to a portion of the sentencing hearing in which the trial court notes that
29
No. 46366-1-II
a proposed written finding of fact did not accurately reflect the jury’s special verdict findings on
an aggravator and that the written finding of fact needed to be corrected. This does not show that
there was any error in the jury’s special verdict form and this argument fails.
Accordingly, all of George’s additional ineffective assistance of trial counsel claims either
fail or are outside the record.
C. CONFLICT OF INTEREST
George also contends that defense counsel had a conflict of interest, apparently because
she was not being paid, that resulted in her failing to properly represent him. Although the record
shows that defense counsel was concerned about being paid, there is nothing in the record
demonstrating that this negatively impacted her representation. Accordingly, this argument fails.
D. DENIAL OF COUNSEL’S MOTION TO WITHDRAW
George also contends that the trial court should have allowed defense counsel to withdraw
because she had a “conflict of interest due to prior trial representation” and due to her concern
about not being paid. SAG at 23. He alleges these factors adversely affected her representation.23
Again, there is nothing in the record suggesting that defense counsel’s financial concerns
or her prior representation of George adversely affected her representation in this case. Thus,
George does not show that the trial court should have allowed defense counsel to withdraw on
these grounds. Additionally, we hold that the trial court did not abuse its discretion24 in denying
23
George refers us to a letter from defense counsel that he has attached to his SAG. We do not
consider this letter because it is not part of the trial court record. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
24
We review a trial court’s denial of a motion to substitute counsel for abuse of discretion. State
v. Varga, 151 Wn.2d 179, 200, 86 P.3d 139 (2004).
30
No. 46366-1-II
counsel’s motion to withdraw because appointing new counsel on the eve of trial would clearly
have caused considerable delay and inconvenience to the jury, witnesses, prosecution, and the
court. Furthermore, to the extent George refers to matters outside the record, we cannot address
them on direct appeal. McFarland, 127 Wn.2d at 335.
E. INEFFECTIVE ASSISTANCE OF APPELLATE COUNSEL
George next contends that he received ineffective assistance of appellate counsel because
appellate counsel failed (1) to argue that defense counsel had failed to investigate the case and
(2) to send George the transcripts he required to prepare his SAG. We disagree as he fails to show
that appellate counsel was deficient or any prejudice.
First, the allegation that defense counsel did not investigate the case relies on matters
outside the record. Because we will only consider the trial court record on appeal, appellate
counsel could not have successfully raised these issues on appeal, and George does not show
deficient performance or prejudice.
Second, our record shows that, although there was some delay, George received the trial
transcripts and that we granted an extension of time and accepted George’s SAG, which clearly
cites the transcripts. Because George received the transcripts and was able to file his SAG, he
cannot show prejudice. Accordingly, these arguments fail.
31
No. 46366-1-II
F. REFERENCES TO GEORGE’S WIFE’S CONTACT WITH C.D.’S FATHER AND RELATED LIMITING
INSTRUCTION
George next challenges the admission of any reference to his wife’s conversation with
C.D.’s father.25 George claims that his wife’s conversation with C.D.’s father was hearsay; this
evidence implied that his wife told C.D.’s father about his sexual abuse of C.D.; and that the
limiting instruction no. 6 given by the trial court related to this evidence 26 did not cure any
prejudice; and the limiting instruction changed the State’s burden of proof. We disagree.
First, C.D.’s father did not testify at trial about the content of his conversation with
George’s wife. Thus, there was no hearsay testimony about George’s wife’s conversation with
C.D.’s father presented at trial.
Second, C.D.’s father testified that his conversation with George’s wife was his reason for
asking C.D. about her contact with George. C.D.’s father also testified that no one had said
anything to him about C.D. having sex with George until he spoke to C.D. George speculates that
25
In a preliminary hearing, George moved to suppress any testimony by his wife about her contact
with C.D.’s father and a conversation with a neighbor that prompted this conversation. Defense
counsel stated that George’s wife would testify that she talked to C.D.’s father after a neighbor
had informed her that she (the neighbor) had seen George walking with a young female who was
“likely [C.D.].” 2 VRP at 52. Defense counsel argued that any testimony about this event by
George’s wife was inadmissible hearsay. The trial court ruled that George’s wife could testify
about what the neighbor told her and that she (the wife) shared this information with George.
George’s wife did not testify. As noted above, C.D.’s father testified only that he spoke to C.D.
after George’s wife came to his house and told him “something.” 3 VRP at 147.
26
The limiting instruction stated:
You heard testimony by [C.D.’s father] that he had a conversation with
[George’s wife]. That testimony is being admitted for the limited purpose of
showing what caused [him] to speak with C.D. It should not be considered for any
other purpose.
CP at 37 (Instruction No. 6).
32
No. 46366-1-II
his wife told C.D.’s father about possible sex abuse during their conversation. Accordingly, this
argument fails.
Third, George implies the limiting instruction, instruction 6, was inadequate and failed to
cure the alleged “hearsay” error. This argument fails because defense counsel proposed the
instruction, so any error was invited and we will not consider this argument further. State v.
Henderson, 114 Wn.2d 867, 870, 792 P.2d 514 (1990).
Fourth, George also appears to contend that defense counsel provided ineffective assistance
of counsel by proposing instruction 6 because the instruction “states that what caused [C.D.’s
father] to call the police is that he heard that the defendant/Appellant was walking down the street
which no reasonable person would call the police for such an incident unless something flagrant
was also said or known and this clearly prejudiced the defendant.” SAG at 22. But George
mischaracterizes the evidence and the limiting instruction because the jury never heard about the
content of the conversation and the limiting instruction did not disclose the content of the
conversation. Accordingly, this argument fails.
Fifth, George claims that the limiting instruction was insufficient to cure the
“[i]nflammatory [e]ffect” caused by the testimony about the conversation. SAG at 22 (emphasis
omitted). We disagree. As discussed above, the testimony never revealed the content of the
conversation, and C.D.’s father testified that no one had mentioned any sexual abuse. These facts
limited the potentially inflammatory aspect of this evidence, and we hold that the limiting
instruction cured any potentially remaining inflammatory effect.
33
No. 46366-1-II
Sixth, George is asserting that the limiting instruction relieved the State of its burden of
establishing the elements of the crimes beyond a reasonable doubt. But the instruction made no
comment on the burden of proof. Accordingly, this argument fails.27
G. VINDICTIVE PROSECUTION/AMENDED INFORMATION
George next contends that (1) he was subject to vindictive prosecution because the State
amended the charges to include the aggravating sentencing factors and changed the charging
period to include December 24, 2012 on the second degree child molestation charge after he
refused to plead guilty to the original charges, (2) the trial court erred in granting the State’s motion
to amend the charges, and (3) his counsel was deficient in failing to object to the motion to amend.
These arguments fail.
“‘Prosecutorial vindictiveness is [the] intentional filing of a more serious crime in
retaliation for a defendant’s lawful exercise of a procedural right.’” State v. Bonisisio, 92 Wn.
App. 783, 790, 964 P.2d 1222 (1998) (alteration in original, internal quotation marks omitted)
(quoting State v. Lee, 69 Wn. App. 31, 35, 847 P.2d 25 (1993)). This does not, however, preclude
the prosecutor from increasing an initial charge if a fully informed and represented defendant
refuses to plead guilty to the original charge, unless the defendant can “‘prove objectively that the
prosecutor’s charging decision was motivated by a desire to punish him for doing something that
the law plainly allowed him to do.’” Bonisisio, 92 Wn. App. at 790-91 (quoting U. S. v. Goodwin,
457 U.S. 368, 384, 102 S. Ct. 2485, 73 L. Ed. 2d 74 (1982)). When the change in charges occurs
27
In this same argument section, George also make a reference to the “prosecutor[’]s purportedly
improper remarks.” SAG at 22. This argument does not appear to relate to any issues raised in
this part of George’s SAG.
34
No. 46366-1-II
before trial, the defendant must prove either actual vindictiveness, or a reasonable likelihood of
vindictiveness that will give rise to a presumption of vindictiveness. Bonisisio, 92 Wn. App.
at 791. The record here contains no information on the plea process, thus George fails to carry
this burden and this argument fails.28
George claims that the amendment to the charge substantially prejudiced his rights, but he
does not specify how. Because he does not specify how he was prejudiced by the amendment and
the record does not establish any prejudice, this argument fails.
In support of his claim that defense counsel should have objected to the amendment
because it “severely affected the plea-negotiations,” George cites to defense counsel’s request that
the trial court bifurcate the trial and the fact finding required by the jury on the aggravated
sentencing factors. SAG at 31. This request is not relevant to the plea negotiations, nor is there
anything else in the record regarding plea negotiations. Thus, the record does not support George’s
assertion that the amended information affected any plea negotiations and this argument fails.
H. PROSECUTORIAL MISCONDUCT CLAIMS
George next contends that the State engaged in prosecutorial misconduct on several
grounds. These arguments fail.
First, George asserts that the prosecutor asked the witnesses leading questions. A leading
question suggests the desired answer; that a question can be freely answered in the affirmative or
28
To the extent George is arguing that the lack of evidence supporting the vulnerable victim
finding demonstrates a reasonable likelihood of vindictiveness, we disagree. Additionally, the
record clearly shows that the State amended the charging period on the second degree child
molestation charge to conform to the evidence disclosed during discovery.
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No. 46366-1-II
a negative is generally not a leading question. State v. Scott, 20 Wn.2d 696, 698-99,
149 P.2d 152 (1944). George argues that the State asked C.D. leading questions when it asked her
(1) whether George had removed his penis from her vagina when shifting between the sexual acts
that took place in the trailer, (2) whether George left her shirt on during one of their intimate
contacts, and (3) whether and how George had touched her during the Christmas 2012 incident.
SAG at 13. These questions called for a yes or no answers; they did not suggest the desired answer;
they were not leading questions; and the State did not engage in misconduct by asking them.
Second, George claims that the State presented false testimony which assumes that C.D.’s
testimony was false, which is a credibility determination. As discussed above, credibility issues
are reserved for the trier of fact and we will not review them on appeal. Camarillo, 115 Wn.2d
at 71.
Third, George asserts that the prosecutor, in opposing defense counsel’s motion to
withdraw, made “misrepresentation[s]” to the court when the prosecutor argued that sufficient
grounds to withdraw did not exist and that withdrawal would be prejudicial. SAG at 13, 26.
George does not show that either of these representations involved any misrepresentation.
Accordingly, this argument fails.
Fourth, the State objected to defense counsel’s closing argument, “At this point, you might
be tempted to think why would [C.D.] lie?” 4 VRP at 248-49. The trial court sustained the
objection and asked defense counsel to rephrase her argument, which she did. George argues that
this objection constitutes prosecutorial misconduct. But this objection was reasonable, the trial
court sustained the objection, and it does not amount to prosecutorial misconduct.
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No. 46366-1-II
Fifth, George asserts that the State made several false statements during closing argument
when it argued that a lisp is a learning disability. 29 George mischaracterizes this argument.
Although the State mentioned that C.D. had a lisp, it argued that this lisp was one of several facts
that suggested C.D. may have a learning disability. This argument was not improper.
Sixth, George contends that the prosecutor made a false statement and suborned perjury
when it stated that C.D.’s father never left her alone at the campfire “ever” because he testified
that C.D. was never present at the campfire “‘ever.’” SAG at 16 (citing 4 VRP at 256). George
mischaracterizes this argument. During closing, the State pointed out that the correct evidence the
jury should consider was C.D.’s father’s testimony that C.D. was not present at the campfire
gathering he attended at George’s residence. This argument does not amount to prosecutorial
misconduct.
Seventh, George claims that the State improperly vouched for C.D.’s credibility when it
suggested in closing argument that the trailer incident took place on a different weekend when
C.D. spent the weekend not during a campfire. We disagree. This was a reasonable inference
from the record and did not amount to prosecutorial misconduct.
29
George also appears to contend that defense counsel’s failure to object to these same statements
during closing argument amounted to ineffective assistance of counsel. Because these arguments
were not improper, defense counsel’s failure to object was not ineffective assistance of counsel.
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No. 46366-1-II
Finally, George claims that reversal is warranted because of cumulative prosecutorial
misconduct. Because we do not find any prosecutorial misconduct, his cumulative prosecutorial
misconduct claim also fails.
I. TRIAL COURT BIAS
George also contends that the trial court was biased. Again, we disagree.
George first asserts that the trial court’s denial of counsel’s motion to withdraw
demonstrated bias. As we discuss above, the trial court did not abuse its discretion in denying
defense counsel’s motion to withdraw. Accordingly, this ruling is not evidence of judicial bias.
George next asserts that the trial court presumed that George’s divorce from his wife “was
due to the nature of the crimes siding with the State.” SAG at 35. George appears to refer to the
trial court’s ruling that the issue of his pending divorce was relevant to bias and was admissible
should his wife testify. Although the trial court had ruled that the couple’s divorce was admissible
to show possible bias, it deferred ruling on whether the parties could introduce evidence of the
reason George’s wife filed for divorce, which could have included George’s other sex offenses
and allegations of sexual abuse of his step-daughter. The court stated that if the parties wanted to
introduce such evidence, it would need to hear more specific argument. Nothing in this part of the
record suggests any judicial bias or that the trial court presumed the divorce was caused by
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No. 46366-1-II
George’s other sex offenses; the trial court only stated that it would need more information should
the parties want to introduce any such evidence. Accordingly, George does not establish judicial
bias on this ground.
George further asserts that the trial court demonstrated bias by “violati[ng]” the motion in
limine limiting the testimony about George’s wife’s contact with C.D.’s father. SAG at 35. The
trial court was asked to rule on whether the jury could hear testimony about the nature of the
conversation between C.D.’s father and George’s wife, and it gave defense counsel the choice of
allowing testimony about the “nature of the conversation” or giving the jury a limiting instruction.
3 VRP at 157. Defense counsel chose the limiting instruction. This is not evidence of bias.
George next appears to assert that the trial court demonstrated bias by giving the jury
limiting instruction number 6, discussed in the previous paragraph. Giving a jury instruction
offered by the defense is not evidence of judicial bias.
George asserts that the trial court demonstrated bias by calling a 10 minute recess after the
State’s closing argument. Calling a recess to provide the jury, the parties, and the court a break
before proceeding with the defense closing argument is common practice and is not evidence of
judicial bias.
George further asserts that the trial court demonstrated bias by upholding an objection by
the State that was unfounded. As we note above, the State objected when defense counsel argued,
“At this point, you might be tempted to think why would [C.D.] lie?” 4 VRP at 248-49. The trial
court sustained the objection and asked defense counsel to rephrase her argument, which she did.
This is a reasonable objection to argument, which the trial court sustained. It is not evidence of
judicial bias.
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No. 46366-1-II
George next asserts that the trial court exhibited bias by not being present to respond to a
jury question. The record shows that another judge addressed a jury question while the jury was
deliberating because the trial court judge was presiding in another hearing in drug court. The trial
court judge was simply not available. Allowing a second judge to fill in so that deliberations could
continue is not evidence of judicial bias.
J. C.D.’S COMMENT ABOUT GEORGE GOING TO JAIL
Finally, George claims that C.D.’s testimony, in which she stated that the sex stopped
hurting because George went to jail, violated the trial court’s order in limine and constituted
grounds for a mistrial. But George fails to identify what portion of the court’s order in limine was
violated or how. Additionally, defense counsel objected to this testimony, and the trial court
instructed the jury to disregard that answer. We presume the jury follow’s the court’s instructions.
State v. Swan, 114 Wn.2d 613, 661-62, 790 P.2d 610 (1990). George does not show that this
testimony was prejudicial or grounds for a mistrial.
CONCLUSION
We affirm George’s convictions, but we hold that the evidence was insufficient to support
the jury’s special verdict findings on the vulnerable victim aggravator. Accordingly, we remand
and order the trial court to vacate the vulnerable victim findings. Because the record does not
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No. 46366-1-II
reveal whether the trial court would have imposed the same exceptional sentences based only on
the remaining aggravating factor findings, we also remand for resentencing. See Weller, 185 Wn.
App. at 930-31.
A majority of the panel having determined that this opinion will not be printed in the
Washington Appellate Reports, but will be filed for public record in accordance with RCW 2.06.040,
it is so ordered.
SUTTON, J.
We concur:
JOHANSON, C.J.
WORSWICK, J.
41