UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
v. Criminal No. 04cr355-05 (CKK)
(Civil Action No. 14-270)
BRYAN BURWELL,
Defendant.
MEMORANDUM OPINION
(February 16, 2016)
Presently before the Court is the sole remaining claim in Bryan Burwell’s [822] Motion
Under 28 U.S.C. § 2255 to Vacate, Set Aside, or Correct Sentence, his ineffective assistance of
counsel claim related to his trial counsel’s alleged failure to interview witness Reon Holloway
regarding his knowledge of Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004, and to question him about
this when Holloway testified at trial. See Memo. Op. (Jan. 15, 2015), at 43-46, ECF No. [854];
Memo. Op. (Mar. 12, 2015), at 4-8, ECF No. [873]. The Court denied all of Burwell’s other claims
in his § 2255 motion pursuant to its Orders and accompanying Memorandum Opinions issued on
January 15, 2015, and March 12, 2015, which the Court INCORPORATES herein. 1 The Court
1
Pursuant to its January 15, 2015, [853] Order, and accompanying [854] Memorandum
Opinion, the Court denied Burwell’s claims that his attorneys were ineffective for: (1) failing to
challenge the violation of his statutory right to a speedy trial prior to trial; (2) failing to raise double
jeopardy and multiplicity challenges to the indictment prior to trial and failing to move to dismiss
based on this challenge during trial; (3) failing to raise a Confrontation Clause challenge to certain
evidence during trial and on appeal; (4) generally providing a “poor overall performance” at trial;
(5) failing to allow Burwell to exercise his right to testify at trial; (6) failing to challenge
government misconduct at trial and on appeal; (7) failing to give an effective closing argument at
trial; (8) failing to request an informant jury instruction at trial; (9) failing to request a theory-of-
defense instruction at trial; (10) failing to request polling of the jury at trial; and (11) failing to
properly challenge juror misconduct and bias at trial and on appeal. Memo. Op. (Jan. 15, 2015),
at 6-49. Further, the Court denied Burwell’s request to vacate, set aside, or correct his sentence
on the basis that the jury instructions related to Count XI were erroneous in light of recent Supreme
ordered additional briefing and held an evidentiary hearing on December 1, and 3, 2015, regarding
the remaining claim in Burwell’s § 2255 motion. Upon consideration of the pleadings, 2 the
testimony provided during the evidentiary hearing, the relevant legal authorities, and the record as
a whole, the Court finds no grounds for setting aside Burwell’s conviction and sentence.
Accordingly, Burwell’s [822] Motion Under 28 U.S.C. § 2255 to Vacate, Set Aside, or Correct
Sentence is DENIED in its entirety for the reasons described herein.
I. BACKGROUND
The Court fully set out the procedural history of this matter in its Memorandum Opinion
of January 15, 2015. Memo. Op. (Jan. 15, 2015), at 1-4. As such, the Court shall focus on the
facts relevant to Burwell’s narrow remaining ineffective assistance of counsel claim. In the instant
§ 2255 motion, Burwell characterizes his ineffective assistance of counsel claim, raised against
Court precedent. See id. at 46-47. Pursuant to its [872] Order of March 12, 2015, and
accompanying [873] Memorandum Opinion, the Court denied Burwell’s ineffective assistance of
counsel claim related to his counsel’s alleged failure to properly prepare witness Brenda Ramirez
to testify. Memo. Op. (Mar. 12, 2015), at 8-11.
2
While the Court renders its decision today on the record as a whole, its consideration has
focused on the following documents: Def.’s Mot. to Vacate Sentence (“Def.’s Mot.”), ECF No.
[822]; Def.’s Memo. in Support of Mot. (“Def.’s Memo.”), ECF No. [822-1]; Govt.’s Opp’n to
Def.’s Mot. to Vacate Sentence (“Govt.’s Opp’n”), ECF No. [827]; Def.’s Reply Brief (“Def.’s
Reply”), ECF No [851]; Affidavit of Bryan Burwell (“Burwell Affidavit”), ECF No. [870]; Govt.’s
Response to Court’s March 12, 2015 Order (“Govt.’s Resp. to Court’s Order”), ECF No. [886];
Govt.’s Resp. to Court’s Order, Ex. 1, (“Martin Affidavit”), ECF No. [886-1]; Govt.’s Resp. to
Court’s Order, Ex. 3, at 1-2 (“Martin Letter”) (Jun. 7, 2005), ECF No. [886-3]; Govt.’s Resp. to
Court’s Order, Ex. 3, at 3-5 (“Burwell Letter #1”), ECF No. [886-3]; Govt.’s Resp. to Court’s
Order, Ex. 4 (“Burwell Letter #2”), ECF No. [886-4]; Govt.’s Resp. to Court’s Addendum to
March 12, 2015, Order (“Govt.’s Resp. to Court’s Addendum”), ECF No. [900]; Def.’s Traverse
to The Govt.’s Addendum Addressing Its Position on The Conspiracy Statute concerning Rico
(“Def.’s Traverse”), ECF No. [918]; Def.’s Mot. to Supp. Sec. 2255, ECF No. [947]; transcripts
of hearings and trial; and exhibits introduced into evidence at the evidentiary hearing held on
December 1, and 3, 2015.
2
Anthony D. Martin, his trial counsel, as follows:
Counsel was supposed to have sent out investigator to alibi witness’s house on
“one” occasion despite Petitioner’s plea that this witness was key to connection of
DNA on one of the flash jackets found at one of the alleged stash houses. Counsel
actually apologized for his negligence in the matter saying he “thought” the
investigator was on top of the situation and that he interviewed each alibi witness
properly. Counsel also stated that he has “messed up” and the issue would become
an appeal issue due to the outcome of the case . . . .
Def.’s Memo. at 18. The Court issued an Order holding in abeyance this claim and directing
Burwell to file a sworn statement identifying the witness who was “key to connection of DNA on
one of the flash jackets” and provide a proffer of what testimony that witness would have provided
at trial. Order (Jan. 15, 2015). Burwell filed an Affidavit in response, indicating that this witness
referenced in his § 2255 motion is Reon Holloway.
Holloway testified at trial that Burwell gave him a camouflage vest identified as Exhibit
“Brinkley 26” (“flak jacket”) in fall 2002 or spring 2003 and that Holloway sold the vest to
government witness Noureddine Chtaini around Christmas of 2003. Tr. 7462:21—7468:6 (Jun.
16, 2005). However, Burwell in his Affidavit filed in response to the Court’s Order identified
Holloway not just as a witness who could testify regarding the camouflage vest, but also as a
witness who could provide him with an alibi for the date of one of the bank robberies. Holloway
did not provide any alibi testimony at trial. Specifically, Burwell indicates in his Affidavit:
Had my lawyer asked Holloway about my where-abouts on the date of May 27,
2004, Holloway would have informed the jury that he and I were together at
Longfellow Street, on the morning in question as well as the remaining portion of
that day.
...
I very specifically requested my lawyer to pursue Mr Holloway concerning my
where-abouts, and he had informed me that he had complied. I was not aware that
3
counsel had not properly asked Holloway about where I was on the day in question
until this witness was dismissed from the stand. Following dismissing Holloway I
asked my lawyer about why he had not asked Holloway about my alibi he informed
me that he had not obtained that information and did not want to bring it up because
he was unaware of what Holloway might say. This witness was a crucial part of my
defense because he would have provided the jury with an alternative location of my
where-abouts thereby raising reasonable doubt resulting in an acquittal.
...
At an evidentiary hearing I am positive that my trial counsel would admit to this
over-sight that ultimately led to my conviction.
Affidavit ¶¶ 2, 5. Burwell’s whereabouts on this date is relevant because he was charged in the
indictment with Racketeering Act 6 under Count I (RICO conspiracy charge), the May 27, 2004,
robbery of the Chevy Chase Bank in Chillum, Maryland. Burwell was not separately charged with
any counts related solely to the May 27, 2004, bank robbery. 3 See Superseding Indictment (Feb.
15, 2005), ECF No. [175].
The Government provided an Affidavit from Burwell’s trial counsel, Anthony D. Martin,
addressing the arguments raised by Burwell with respect to this issue. In his Affidavit, Martin
explains:
During our numerous discussions, the only alibi witness that Mr. Burwell ever
mentioned was Brenda Ramirez. Mr. Reon Holloway was called to offer an
explanation as to the presence of Mr. Burwell’s DNA on the bulletproof vest that
was linked to the bank robberies. Mr. Burwell knew the scope of my intended
examination of Mr. Holloway given my June 7th, 2005 letter. Indeed, a letter from
3
The Court ordered additional briefing on the legal issue of whether Burwell’s participation
in this bank robbery, one of two predicate acts for the RICO conspiracy charge, was required to be
proven by the jury in order to support a conviction. See Addendum to Ct.’s Mar. 12, 2015, Order,
ECF No. [874]. However, after reviewing the parties’ briefing on this issue, the Court set this
matter for an evidentiary hearing in light of the jury instructions given at trial related to RICO
conspiracy charge and the factual dispute discussed further below in the affidavits submitted by
Burwell and Martin. See Order (Sept. 29, 2015) at 6-9, ECF No. [939]. For the reasons described
below, the Court does not reach this issue because it bases its ruling on other grounds.
4
Mr. Burwell to Mr. Holloway regarding his testimony mentions nothing about
Holloway offering an alibi.
Furthermore, there was no communication from Mr. Burwell to either me or my
investigator suggesting that Mr. Holloway was an alibi witness. Notwithstanding
my reluctance to have Mr. Holloway testify and advisement that he not be called,
Mr. Burwell insisted. Moreover, my efforts to personally find and meet with Mr.
Holloway and contact his attorney are well documented in the record of trial.
Finally, at no time did I ever tell Mr. Burwell, that I had “messed up.”
Martin Affidavit at 2 (citations and emphasis omitted). Given the factual dispute between Burwell
and Martin, the Court appointed counsel to represent Burwell in relation to this remaining
ineffective assistance of counsel claim in his § 2255 motion, and set this matter for an evidentiary
hearing in order to have the most complete record on which to rule. The Court held the evidentiary
hearing on December 1, and 3, 2015, during which Holloway, Burwell, and Martin testified.
Given the scope of its inquiry, the Court shall briefly address the record at trial surrounding
Holloway’s testimony. On June 13, 2005, Burwell’s trial counsel indicated on the record that
Holloway ignored two subpoenas requiring him to appear to testify at trial. Burwell’s trial counsel
explained that Burwell requested that Holloway be brought to Court to testify by the United States
Marshals, which Burwell himself confirmed on the record. Burwell’s counsel also asserted that it
was his determination that this course of action was not in Burwell’s best interest. Ultimately,
Burwell’s counsel put on the record that he would make the request that the Marshals bring
Holloway to testify at his client’s request but against his advice. Tr. 6800:1—6801:2 (Jun. 13,
2005). The Court indicated that it would not direct the Marshals to pick up Holloway and transport
him to Court to testify unless it was verified that Holloway was previously properly subpoenaed
to appear at trial and ignored the subpoena. Id. at 6801:3-7; Tr. 6931:9-14 (Jun. 14, 2005). On
5
June 14, 2005, the Court questioned whether Holloway was properly served with the subpoena
after hearing from the investigator, David Jones, who attempted to serve him but instead left the
subpoena at Holloway’s door after he was unable to locate Holloway and the woman who
answered the door refused to accept the subpoena. Id. at 6944:3—6946:15. Nonetheless, it
appears that the request to send the Marshals to pick up Holloway became moot as Burwell’s
counsel informed the Court that he had discovered that Holloway was detained at the Correctional
Treatment Facility (“CTF”). In light of this information, the Court issued a come-up to require
Holloway’s transport from CTF to Court. Id. at 7040:10-15, 7042:9-10; Tr. 7209:11 (Jun. 15,
2005).
At the relevant time period, it appears that Holloway had charges pending against him in
the Superior Court of the District of Columbia (“Superior Court”) and was represented by attorney
Richard Samad. See Tr. 6932:3-5, 6932:12-13, 6947:22-24 (Jun. 14, 2005). On June 14, 2005,
Martin also informed the Court of the following with relation to Holloway:
This witness is being called against my advice. Mr. Burwell wants this witness
called. And I have spoken to Mr. Holloway’s attorney twice. My understanding is
Mr. Samad has advised Mr. Holloway not to testify. And I have also sent my
investigator out no less than twice. And Mr. Holloway, as far as I can tell, is
evading him.
...
I know he has a pending case in Superior Court. I’ve never spoken to Mr. Holloway,
so that’s another reason I don’t want to call him. I have no clue what he’s going to
say when he takes the stand.
Id. at 6932:2-15. While Martin indicated that he had not spoken with Holloway, Jones, the defense
investigator, indicated on the record that he had interviewed Holloway in April or early May. Id.
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at 6945:14-15.
With regard to Holloway’s representation by Samad, the Court indicated on the record that
it would need to know the basis for Samad’s objection to Holloway testifying in the instant action.
The Court indicated that if Samad was asserting a Fifth Amendment claim on behalf of Holloway,
then the Court would require Holloway to be represented by counsel in relation to this issue. Id. at
7040:20—7041:13, 7041:18-24, 7042:9-25. The Court further noted that it would conduct an
inquiry on the record with regard to the Fifth Amendment issue if it was raised. Id. at 7042:9-25.
On the morning of June 15, 2005, Holloway was transported to Court and the Court located Samad
who was appearing across the street at Superior Court. Tr. 7209:11—7210:2 (Jun. 15, 2005).
When Samad arrived in Court, the Court took a recess to allow Samad and Martin to speak to each
other and with Holloway, who was in the cellblock. Id. at 7270:6—7272:19. After the recess,
Martin indicated that there was no Fifth Amendment issue with regard to the testimony of
Holloway. Id. at 7273:10-14. After the Court took a break for lunch on June 15, 2005, the Court
indicated that it would prefer to put Holloway on the stand that day so that he did not need to be
transported back to Court on the following day since he was in a wheelchair. Id. at 7312:23—
7313:1. However, later in the day, the Court indicated that it was unlikely that they would reach
Holloway’s testimony that day, and that the Court would issue a come-up for the following day to
facilitate Holloway’s transport to Court from CTF. Id. at 7366:6-15. Holloway was the first
witness to testify on the morning of June 16, 2005. See Tr. 7461:12-17, 7462:21-25 (Jun. 16,
2005). Holloway’s testimony only addressed the flak jacket and there was no discussion of
Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004. Tr. 7462:21—7468:6 (Jun. 16, 2005).
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II. LEGAL STANDARD
Under 28 U.S.C. § 2255, a prisoner in custody under sentence of a federal court may move
the sentencing court to vacate, set aside, or correct its sentence if the prisoner believes that the
sentence was imposed “in violation of the Constitution or laws of the United States, or that the
court was without jurisdiction to impose such sentence, or that the sentence was in excess of the
maximum authorized by law, or is otherwise subject to collateral attack.” 28 U.S.C. § 2255(a).
The circumstances under which such a motion will be granted, however, are limited in light of the
premium placed on the finality of judgments and the opportunities prisoners have to raise most of
their objections during trial or on direct appeal. “[T]o obtain collateral relief a prisoner must clear
a significantly higher hurdle than would exist on direct appeal.” United States v. Frady, 456 U.S.
152, 166 (1982). Nonetheless, “[u]nless the motion and the files and records of the case
conclusively show that the prisoner is entitled to no relief, the court shall . . . grant a prompt hearing
thereon, determine the issues and make findings of fact and conclusions of law with respect
thereto.” 28 U.S.C. § 2255(b).
A prisoner may not raise a claim as part of a collateral attack if that claim could have been
raised on direct appeal, unless he can demonstrate either: (1) “cause” for his failure to do so and
“prejudice” as a result of the alleged violation, or (2) “actual innocence” of the crime of which he
was convicted. Bousley v. United States, 523 U.S. 614, 622 (1998). However, “[w]here a
petitioner raises claims of ineffective assistance of counsel in a § 2255 motion, he need not show
‘cause and prejudice’ for not having raised such claims on direct appeal, as these claims may
properly be raised for the first time in a § 2255 motion.” United States v. Cook, 130 F. Supp. 2d
43, 45 (D.D.C. 2000), aff’d, 22 F. App’x 3 (D.C. Cir. 2001) (citation omitted).
8
A defendant claiming ineffective assistance of counsel must show (1) “that counsel’s
performance fell below an objective standard of reasonableness under prevailing professional
norms,” and (2) “that this error caused [him] prejudice.” United States v. Hurt, 527 F.3d 1347,
1356 (D.C. Cir. 2008) (citation omitted). “Judicial scrutiny of counsel’s performance must be
highly deferential. It is all too tempting for a defendant to second-guess counsel’s assistance after
conviction or adverse sentence . . . .” Strickland v. Washington, 466 U.S. 668, 689 (1984). It is
the petitioner’s burden to show that counsel’s errors were “so serious” that counsel could not be
said to be functioning as the counsel guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment. Harrington v. Richter,
562 U.S. 86, 104 (2011). “The reasonableness of counsel’s actions may be determined or
substantially influenced by the defendant’s own statements or actions . . . . [I]nquiry into counsel’s
conversations with the defendant may be critical to a proper assessment of . . . counsel’s other
litigation decisions.” Strickland, 466 U.S. at 691. In evaluating ineffective assistance of counsel
claims, the Court must give consideration to “counsel’s overall performance,” Kimmelman v.
Morrison, 477 U.S. 365, 386 (1986), and “indulge a strong presumption that counsel’s conduct
falls within the wide range of reasonable professional assistance,” Strickland, 466 U.S. at 689.
Moreover, “[t]he defendant must show that there is 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.” Id. at 694.
III. DISCUSSION
At the evidentiary hearing, the witnesses presented conflicting testimony regarding
Martin’s knowledge that Holloway could present alibi testimony for the May 27, 2004, bank
robbery. In light of the factual dispute between Burwell and Martin, the key issue before the Court
9
is whether Martin knew that Holloway could present alibi testimony on Burwell’s behalf for the
May 27, 2004, date. In reaching its decision on this issue, the Court shall discuss the pertinent
evidence before it. The Court shall first review the conflicting accounts provided by the witnesses
at the evidentiary hearing. The Court shall then discuss the documents created by Burwell and
Martin prior to and during trial. The Court shall next turn to Burwell’s account of Martin’s
explanation for not eliciting Holloway’s alibi testimony. The Court shall then address Martin’s
and Jones’ dealings with Holloway prior to him testifying at trial. The Court shall also discuss the
post-conviction pleadings filed on Burwell’s behalf and by Burwell. Finally, the Court shall
address a separate issue raised by Burwell in a supplemental brief submitted pro se on February
12, 2016, regarding the Supreme Court of the United States’ recent decision in Johnson v. United
States, 135 S. Ct. 2551 (2015).
For the reasons described herein, the Court finds that Martin was unaware that Holloway
could present alibi testimony for Burwell on May 27, 2004, up until the instant proceedings on
Burwell’s § 2255 motion. As such, Burwell’s ineffective assistance of counsel claim fails because
Martin’s performance is not deficient for failing to investigate information that was never provided
to him.
A. Two accounts provided by the witnesses at the evidentiary hearing
At the evidentiary hearing, two conflicting accounts of the information provided to Martin
leading up to trial regarding Holloway’s potential alibi testimony were advanced – one account
based on the testimony of Burwell and Holloway and one account based on Martin’s testimony.
The Court shall address each account in turn.
10
1. Burwell’s and Holloway’s account
Burwell and Holloway provided largely consistent testimony regarding the incidents that
occurred on May 27, 2004. According to both of them, Burwell came over to Holloway’s house
sometime between 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. on May 27, 2004, and the two were together outside
in the neighborhood continuously until late in the evening or very early the next morning.
Holloway indicated that he came over to Burwell’s house before 10:00 a.m., which is the time that
the liquor store in the neighborhood opens. Tr. 29:3-14 (Dec. 1, 2015).
Burwell testified that he told both Jones and Martin that Holloway should be called as an
alibi witness on his behalf for the May 27, 2004, bank robbery. Id. at 40:19-22. While Burwell
could not remember the specific date or time frame, he indicated that he identified Holloway as an
alibi witness while he was working with Martin to build his defense theory. Id. at 48:10-14.
During the same meeting, Burwell testified that he believes he told Martin both about Holloway’s
ability to testify regarding the flak jacket and Burwell’s whereabouts on the date of the first bank
robbery, as well as about another alibi witness, Brenda Ramirez, who could testify as to his
whereabouts on the date of the second bank robbery. Id. at 53:17—56:12.
Holloway similarly testified that he told both Jones and Martin about his ability to serve as
an alibi witness for Burwell. Id. at 9:6-11, 11:9—12:1. Specifically, Jones met with Holloway on
two occasions, once briefly at his home and once at the Correctional Treatment Facility 4 (“CTF”)
for 30 to 45 minutes. Id. at 7:13-16, 8:5-16, 15:8-13, 19:11-14. During both meetings, Holloway
told Jones about his ability to testify regarding Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004, and the
4
Holloway was being detained at that time while awaiting sentencing in a case that was
pending in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Tr. 19:11-20 (Dec. 1, 2015).
11
two also discussed the flak jacket. Id. at 15:22—16:24, 20:9-11.
Holloway also indicated that he met with Martin for about ten minutes in the bullpen in
this courthouse on the day that he testified. Id. at 9:18-25, 10:10-14. At that meeting, Holloway
and Martin discussed the same things that Holloway told Jones, including the flak jacket and
Holloway’s information about Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004. Id. at 10:18-25. Martin
specifically asked Holloway whether he could testify that Holloway and Burwell were together on
May 27, 2004. Id. at 11:9-12. Holloway told Martin that he could testify to that and had he been
asked on the stand, he would have testified that he and Burwell were together continuously from
9:30 or 10:00 a.m. for the remainder of the day. Id. at 11:1—12:1, 12:15—13:16. Based on
Holloway’s testimony, it is reasonable to conclude that by his account, Martin knew that Holloway
spoke with Jones about his potential alibi testimony. See id. at 10:21-23 (“He said, you know, you
spoke with my investigator and we’re going to go over that same things that you guys spoke about
pertaining to the vest and his whereabouts.”).
During the evidentiary hearing, both Burwell and Holloway provided specific details about
events occurring on May 27, 2004, that both indicated they did not provide to either Jones or
Martin. Id. at 16:20—19:8, 79:2—81:8. Specifically, 10 to 20 other people were outside in the
neighborhood with Burwell and Holloway at various times during the day and, on that day, Burwell
and Holloway got Burwell’s father, Buster Burwell, drunk because it was almost his birthday. Id.
at 17:2—18:16, 80:1—81:12. Burwell indicated that he could not list the names of the other people
who were outside with them that day. Id. at 80:7—81:8. Moreover, he indicated that he did not
tell Martin about his father being present because Martin previously told him with respect to
potential testimony from his wife, that family members were not credible witnesses. Id. at 79:16-
12
25.
2. Martin’s account
Martin provided a conflicting account of what he was told by Burwell regarding
Holloway’s possible alibi testimony. Martin repeatedly contended during the evidentiary hearing
that at no time did Burwell indicate to him that he had an alibi witness for May 27, 2004, or identify
Holloway as potentially being able to provide alibi testimony for that date. Id. at 104:20—105:10,
119:17-20, 167:6-8. Rather, Martin indicated that the purpose of calling Holloway to testify was
so that he could provide an explanation for the presence of Burwell’s DNA on a flak jacket in
evidence. Id. at 107:21-24, 111:15-18, 118:2-4. Further, Martin indicated that the first time he
heard about Holloway’s ability to serve as an alibi witness for the date in question was when
Burwell made that assertion in an affidavit filed in February 2015, related to the instant § 2255
motion. Id. at 167:6-8. Moreover, Martin testified that Jones never told him Holloway could serve
as an alibi witness, id. at 119:13-16, and instead that Jones told him that Holloway had denied
knowing anything about the flak jacket during their meeting, id. at 117:4-6.
Martin also indicated that he did not remember whether he had a conversation with
Holloway prior to him testifying, id. at 155:14-15, but that he thought that he was “pretty sure”
that he would have spoken to him briefly before calling him to the stand, id. at 155:20-21, 156:8-
10. However, Martin indicated that if he did talk to Holloway, they would have discussed the flak
jacket because that was the reason that Holloway was being called as a witness. Id. at 156:3-4.
Given that the Court was presented with conflicting testimony regarding the key issue of whether
Martin was aware of Holloway’s potential alibi testimony, the Court next turns to the documents
admitted into evidence during the evidentiary hearing.
13
B. Documents created by Burwell and Martin prior to and during trial
During the evidentiary hearing, several documents were admitted into evidence that were
created by Burwell and Martin prior to and during trial. These documents are significant because
they support Martin’s testimony that Holloway would testify about the flak jacket but do not
mention Holloway’s potential alibi testimony. Moreover, the documents also reflect that Ramirez
was identified as a potential alibi witness for a different date and Martin pursued that information.
The Court shall first discuss the former set of documents and then shall discuss the latter set of
documents.
1. Documents reflect Holloway’s potential testimony regarding the flak jacket but
not Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004
Generally, Martin kept copious notes of his conversations with Burwell and others during
the investigation in this matter and Burwell himself admitted that Martin often took notes during
their conversations. See id. at 53:24-25 (“I know Mr. Martin, he takes notes down and he likes to
ask questions and ask in depth about what’s going on.”). Martin made his records fully available
to Burwell’s counsel in the instant action. Id. at 125:9-16, 161:24—162:2, 164:22-25. However,
none of the notes or documents in Martin’s file reflect that Martin was told about Holloway’s
potential alibi testimony, but do reflect the information about the flak jacket.
The documents introduced into evidence were created both prior to and during trial. The
exhibits establish, in part, the topics discussed by Martin and Burwell in preparation for his defense
and provide a rough timeline for when such discussions may have taken place. The Court notes
that Martin filed his Notice of Appearance on Burwell’s behalf on August 5, 2004, Not. of
Appearance, ECF No. [18], and jury selection commenced on April 5, 2005. At the evidentiary
14
hearing, the Government introduced into evidence a document titled “BURWELL NOTES,” which
was created by Martin on either December 20, 2004, or January 8, 2005. The document is typed
and also includes handwritten notes, but contains no reference to Holloway as an alibi witness.
Govt.’s Ex. K. Martin indicated he was unsure if the general topic of alibi witnesses had been
discussed between him and Burwell at that time. Tr. 137:5-8 (Dec. 1, 2015). However, the
document does include a notation dated Sunday, April 3, 2005, that indicates:
FLAK JACKET
Was purchased during the sniper rampage (Lee Boyd Malvo and John Muhammad)
by BRYAN BURWELL…he eventually gave this jacket to REYON
HOLLOWAY. RH is a paraplegic who was shot during a robbery. After the
rampage BB gave the jacket to RH. RH was introduced to CHITAINI through his
brother DAVID MCANN.
Def.’s Ex. 3 at 7. 5
The Government also introduced into evidence handwritten notes marked with the title
“ATTY Client Communications” that Burwell took on April 5, 2005. Govt.’s Ex. A; see also Tr.
57:17—58:9 (Dec. 1, 2015). In one portion of the notes, Burwell writes:
Need invetorgator [sic] to go out and talk to Reyon Halloway [sic] Brother of
Deceased Person who M.M. and N. Chatani [sic] met. Can collaborate how N.
Chatani bought or stole not sure wich [sic] one a Camo/Flap Jacket for Him
explaining how DNA GOT on Vest?
Plus Halloway might testify against Chatani for credibility [sic] purpose say
Chatani had various apt . . . .
Govt.’s Ex A at 2. As such, it is clear from the note that at least as of the day that jury selection
5
The Court notes that Defendant’s Exhibit 3 and Government’s Exhibit K are the same
typed document but the Government’s exhibit includes handwritten notes while Defendant’s
exhibit does not include handwritten notes but does include an additional page with the cited
information. See Tr. 133:11—134:14 (Dec. 1, 2015).
15
began, Burwell had identified Holloway as a potential witness to provide an explanation for why
his DNA was found on a flak jacket in evidence at the trial. Tr. 107:11—108:2 (Dec. 1, 2015).
However, the notes do not reference Holloway’s potential alibi testimony for May 27, 2004. At
the evidentiary hearing, Burwell contended that while the notes do not specifically reference alibi
testimony, it was implied by his reference to Holloway’s ability to testify for “credibility”
purposes. Id. at 59:7-15. Specifically, Burwell stated: “[C]redibility purpose would be alibi
because [Chitaini’s] testimony would have been impeached if [Holloway] said he was with me
and Chitaini was with him.” Id. at 59:9-11. As such, Burwell argues in that document he did
reference Holloway’s ability to rebut Chitaini’s testimony that Burwell robbed the bank on May
27, 2004. However, a review of the document demonstrates that Burwell provided specific
information that Holloway could provide regarding Chitaini’s credibility, namely his ability to
testify that: Chitaini had multiple apartments, one of which was right next to Holloway’s house;
Chitaini ran a “weed” factory; and Chitaini’s brother had a rental silver pick-up truck around the
time of the June 12, 2004, bank robbery which Burwell asserted would show the brother’s
association with the alleged conspiracy. Govt.’s Ex. A at 2. Indeed, nowhere in the outline of
Holloway’s potential testimony is there any indication that he could serve as an alibi witness nor
is there any reference to the May 27, 2004, bank robbery.
The Government also introduced into evidence two document filed in the instant action by
Martin on Burwell’s behalf. The first is a document captioned “Defendant’s Notice of an Alibi
Defense” which was filed in the instant action on April 15, 2005, at the beginning of trial. Govt.’s
Ex. I. In that document, Martin indicated Burwell’s intent to call Ramirez as an alibi witness for
the June 12, 2004, bank robbery. Id. However, the document makes no reference to any other
16
alibi witnesses. Id.; see also Tr. 109:10-13 (Dec. 1, 2015). The second is a document captioned
“Ex Parte Motion for Subpoenas Under Seal,” that was filed on June 2, 2005, while the trial was
ongoing. Govt.’s Ex. J. In that document, Martin on behalf of Burwell requests that the United
States Marshal serve subpoenas on five witnesses, including Holloway and Ramirez. Id. With
respect to Holloway, the document indicates: “Mr. Burwell would also like to offer an explanation
regarding the presence of his DNA on a body armor vest. This explanation can be provided by Mr.
REON HOLLOWAY.” Id. at 3. By contrast, the document indicates that Ramirez would testify
as an alibi witness to one of the bank robberies. Id.; Tr. 111:12-14 (Dec. 1, 2015).
At the evidentiary hearing, the Government also introduced a letter that was written by
Martin to Burwell and hand delivered to Burwell on June 7, 2005, while the trial was ongoing.
Govt.’s Ex. E. The letter memorializes Martin’s concerns that Holloway should not be called as a
witness during trial. Id. Moreover, the letter indicates that Holloway denied knowing anything
about the flak jacket to his investigator and that Holloway had been advised by his attorney not to
testify. Id. Burwell initialed the letter to indicate that he still wanted Holloway called as a witness.
Notably, the letter does not reference any potential alibi testimony from Holloway, only
information about the flak jacket. See id.; Tr. 72:3-5 (Dec. 1, 2015). In sum, none of the notes or
documents in Martin’s file reflect that Martin was told about Holloway’s potential alibi testimony,
but do reflect the information about the flak jacket.
The documents introduced and the testimony at the evidentiary hearing demonstrate that
Martin had reasonable concerns about Holloway’s credibility and it is undisputed that Martin and
Burwell did not see eye-to-eye regarding calling Holloway as a witness. Indeed, Martin only called
Holloway because Burwell insisted. Martin identified two letters written by Burwell that he
17
scanned and retained in a folder marked “2255” in his electronic files. Tr. 115:20-25 (Dec. 1,
2015); see also Govt.’s Exs. C & D. The letters were undated and Martin was uncertain as to when
they were written. Specifically, Martin indicated that he did not remember if the letters were in
Burwell’s notebook during the trial. Tr. 116:3-16 (Dec. 1, 2005). Martin also noted that it was
possible that the letters were written by Burwell after he was told by Martin in May 2005, that
Martin could not speak with Holloway because Holloway was represented by counsel. Id. at
130:16-21. Indeed, Martin’s typed notes included an entry dated May 11, 2005, indicating that
Martin explained to Burwell that he was unable to speak with Holloway because Holloway was
represented by counsel. Def.’s Ex. 2 at 1. In that entry, Martin noted that Burwell said he would
contact Holloway himself. Id. Regardless of the impetus for Burwell writing these letters, the
contents of them made Martin concerned about suborning perjury if Holloway testified. Tr.
116:21-23 (Dec. 1, 2015). Indeed, Martin stated that he felt the letters appeared to be coaching
Holloway, and he was concerned that Holloway was either being coached or pressed to say
something untrue. 6 Id. at 116:25—117:2. The Court notes that nothing in the record reflects that
either of these letters were actually given to Holloway. Id. at 12:5-11 (Holloway testifying that
Martin never showed him any letters written by Burwell and Burwell did not give Holloway any
directions regarding what he should say); id. at 33:11—34:8 (Burwell testifying that he never gave
the letters to Holloway and he did not think that Martin gave the letters to Holloway); id. at 131:1—
6
Martin also indicated two other reasons for questioning the veracity of Holloway’s
testimony: (1) the fact that Holloway evaded Jones; and (2) the fact that Jones reported that during
their meeting, Holloway said he did not remember anything about the flak jacket. Tr. 117:4-6
(Dec. 1, 2015). The Court shall discuss the importance of the information provided to and by
Jones below.
18
132:4 (Martin testifying that he did not send these letters to Holloway nor did Jones and that he
was not aware that Burwell or a member of Burwell’s family had sent them to Holloway).
However, the Court still finds that a discussion of the letters is relevant to its credibility
determination as well as its ultimate determination on the issue of whether Martin was informed
of Holloway’s ability to serve as an alibi witness for Burwell on May 27, 2004, prior to or during
trial.
In first letter, Burwell writes to someone whom he addresses as “player” and indicates that
he needs a “big favor.” Govt.’s Ex. C; Tr. 61:6-15 (Dec. 1, 2015). The letter then reads:
that jacket i got flow i need you 2 say i left you with one just like it. Green
camouflage with pockets and shoulder pads. i gave it to you around the time of the
sniper shootings and you never wore it cause it was to big and heavy. Dolphin
face/D said around December 2003 he wanted to buy it you said 300$, he bought it
from you and you never saw it again. Thats all i need you to say dog and it is
important you wont get in trouble for testifying for me please i need you dog.
Dolphin face already mentioned 007s name on the stand so the jury already knows
you jive.
Govt.’s Ex. C at 1. The second page of the document includes similar information. Id. at 2.
Notably, the letter only references potential testimony about the flak jacket and does not discuss
any possible alibi testimony for the date of May 27, 2004. During the evidentiary hearing, Burwell
was not forthcoming with information about this document during his testimony. Burwell
indicated that he did not know whether he wrote this note to give Martin a better understanding of
Holloway’s potential testimony, or whether he gave it to Martin and Martin advised Burwell that
he should not give it to Holloway. See Tr. 63:5—66:3 (Dec. 1, 2015); see also id. at 33:11-21.
Eventually, Burwell conceded that the letter appeared to be addressing Holloway and that he likely
wanted Martin to give it to Holloway for him. Id. at 63:12-20. Burwell also indicated that he
19
could not recall who “Dolphin Face” was as referenced in the letter and that he thought they called
everyone “Dolphin Face” back then. Id. at 63:21—64:4.
The second letter admitted into evidence also does not reference any potential alibi
testimony. Indeed, the second letter is addressed “Whats-Up ‘Focker,’” and again discusses the
testimony regarding the flak jacket but does not mention any potential alibi testimony. Govt.’s
Ex. D. The letter again references the jacket that Burwell gave to the recipient of the letter around
the time of the sniper shootings. Id. at 1. The letter then goes on to indicate:
You never wore it cause it was to tight and to heavy and big to wear in a wheel
chair. So it stayed in your house till late 2003 around early December Dolphin Face
AKA JESUS came over your house seen the jacket and offered you $400 for it and
was persistant [sic]. You needed money at the time Christmas was coming up so
you sold it to him for $425. You convinced him to go up another 25 bucks. You
never saw the jacket again after you sold it to JESUS!
Id. At the end of the letter, Burwell writes: “PLEASE DOG. RIDE 4 you Li _ 4 you.” Id. at 2.
With respect to this letter, Burwell testified that he remembered that he wrote this letter to
Holloway and gave it to Martin to see if it was permissible to send. Tr. 68:21-24 (Dec. 1, 2015).
However, Martin advised Burwell that it was not a good idea to send the letter to Holloway. Id. at
68:5—69:5. While Burwell was forthcoming with his purpose for writing the letter, Burwell was
evasive when asked about the meaning of the reference “RIDE 4 you Li _ 4 you.” During cross-
examination, Burwell was specifically asked about this portion of the letter:
Q. It says in very big letters: Please, dog, ride for you, L-I blank for you. What does
that mean?
A. I don’t know.
Q. You wrote it?
20
A. It was a long time ago. I wrote a lot of stuff. I don’t know what that means.
Q. Doesn’t that mean ride for you, lie for you?
A. Ride for you, L-I for you.
Q. What’s the third letter then?
A. I don’t know, it’s a blank.
Q. It’s what?
A. It’s blank. Nothing there.
Q. Didn’t you mean when you wrote this letter to Mr. Holloway that you gave to
Mr. Martin, that you wanted Mr. Holloway to lie for you?
A. No.
Tr. 69:8-23 (Dec. 1, 2015).
The record during the trial in the instant action also reflects Martin’s discomfort with
calling Holloway as a witness. On both June 13, 2005, and June 14, 2005, Martin put on the record
that Holloway was being called against Martin’s advice. Tr. 6800:1—6801:2 (Jun. 13, 2005); Tr.
6932:2-7 (Jun. 14, 2005). On June 14, 2005, Martin also indicated to the Court that he had not
spoken with Holloway so he was unsure what he would say if he testified. Tr. 6932:12-15 (Jun.
14, 2005). The Court then indicated that Burwell should be able to advise Martin as to what he
hoped Holloway would say if he testified. Id. at 6932:16-19. At that time, Martin indicated:
“There’s more to this that I don’t want to put on the record.” Id. at 6933:2-3. In Martin’s typed
notes saved in the “2255” electronic folder, Martin included in an entry dated Monday, June 13,
2005, “Put on the record my counsel against calling RH since he is a reluctant witness and I am
not certain about the veracity of his testimony.” Def.’s Ex. 2 at 2. Below that notation is another
21
that indicated: “2255 – Put on the record the fact that BB insists on calling witnesses that I don’t
think is in his best interest.” Id.
Martin was asked about his exchange with the Court regarding his advice to Burwell about
calling Holloway as a witness. Martin indicated that at the time of trial, he framed the issue to the
Court as a disagreement between Martin and Burwell over whether Holloway should be called.
Tr. 117:9-15 (Dec. 1, 2015). However, Martin did not think that Holloway would give truthful
testimony, id. at 119:8-9, 166:25—167:1, nor was he sure whether Holloway would testify as
Burwell indicated that he would testify, id. at 119:10-12. As such, Martin noted that he was never
comfortable with calling Holloway. Id. at 148:2-23, 157:13-22, 158:7-9. In light of the record
before the Court, it appears that Martin had reasonable concerns about calling Holloway to testify
and Martin handled those concerns in an appropriate manner while continuing his representation
of Burwell.
While it is clear that Martin had concerns about the veracity of Holloway’s testimony,
Burwell and Holloway both maintained that Burwell never coached Holloway nor did Burwell ask
Holloway to lie. While Burwell acknowledged that Holloway visited him at the D.C. Jail during
the trial, on or around June 7, 2005, Burwell indicated they did not talk about either the flak jacket
or Holloway’s testimony generally. Id. at 72:13-25. Moreover, Burwell testified that he never
told Holloway to lie nor did he have other people ask Holloway to lie for him. Id. at 73:1-4.
2. Documents reflect that Ramirez was identified as a potential alibi witness for a
different date and Martin pursued that information
In contrast to Martin’s alleged failure to pursue and present Holloway’s alibi testimony,
documents created by Burwell and Martin prior to and during trial reflect that Ramirez was
22
identified as a potential alibi witness for a different date and Martin pursued that information.
Martin indicated that he spoke with Burwell about alibi witnesses generally but is not sure at what
point prior to trial they had this discussion. Id. at 105:11—106:4, 132:21—133:10. Specifically,
Martin noted that in this particular case there was room for an alibi defense because there was
video evidence of the bank robberies, but it was not easy to tell if Burwell appeared in those videos.
Id. at 104:7-14. Similarly, Burwell himself noted that he was aware from the beginning of the case
of the importance of having alibi witnesses, noting that it was “the best thing” he could have in
terms of his defense. Id. at 34:21—35:1, 35:24—36:3, 48:15—49:20. Nonetheless, Martin
testified that in preparing Burwell’s defense, he provided Burwell with the dates of the incidents
in the indictment, id. at 103:23—104:1, and when the topic of alibi witnesses came up, Burwell
identified only one alibi witness, Ramirez, id. at 104:13-16.
Martin testified that if he knew Holloway could have provided alibi testimony, he would
have either listed Holloway as such in the “Defendant’s Notice of Alibi Defense” filed with the
Court on April 15, 2005, or in the “Ex Parte Motion for Subpoenas Under Seal,” filed with the
Court on June 2, 2005, because one “can’t litigate by ambush.” Id. at 109:16-23, 111:19-25; see
also Govt.’s Exs. I & J. Martin also indicated that if he was aware of Holloway’s potential alibi
testimony, he would have had Jones discuss it with Holloway. Tr. 109:22-23 (Dec. 1, 2015).
Martin’s account of what he would have done if Burwell identified Holloway as an alibi
witnesses is bolstered by his treatment of Ramirez who it is undisputed was, in fact, identified as
a potential alibi witness by Burwell. Indeed, the Government introduced into evidence a
handwritten note from Burwell to Martin, listing Ramirez’s place of work. Govt.’s Ex. B; see also
Tr. 108:10-13 (Dec. 1, 2015). On this note, Martin wrote an address for Ramirez and a notation
23
“Gay Pride Parade Day 10:00 AM met @ 4:00 p.m.,” presumably in reference to Ramirez’s
potential alibi testimony. Govt.’s Ex. B; see also Tr. 108:13-17, 60:7-18 (Dec. 1, 2015).
Moreover, both the “Defendant’s Notice of Alibi Defense” and the “Ex Parte Motion for
Subpoenas Under Seal” filed by Martin on Burwell’s behalf identify Ramirez as an alibi witness
for Burwell. Govt.’s Ex. I & J; Tr. 109:6-13, 111:12-14 (Dec. 1, 2015).
The documents created by Burwell and Martin prior to and during trial reveal two
important points. First, while the documents do reflect that Holloway could testify regarding the
presence of Burwell’s DNA on the flak jacket, there is no mention whatsoever in any of the
documents of Holloway’s ability to testify as to Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004. Second,
the documents demonstrate that Martin properly proceeded to present Ramirez’s alibi testimony
when she was identified by Burwell. As such, the documents support Martin’s contention that he
was not informed of Holloway’s potential alibi testimony and, if he had been, that he would have
proceeded in the same way he did to present Ramirez as an alibi witness.
C. Burwell’s account of Martin’s explanation for not eliciting Holloway’s alibi
testimony
Burwell testified that he expressed dissatisfaction to Martin after Holloway was excused
from the witness stand at trial because Martin failed to elicit Holloway’s alibi testimony. However,
Burwell’s account of Martin’s reaction to this complaint, i.e., never giving a full explanation as to
why he did not ask Holloway about Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004, and never offering
to recall the witness, seems implausible.
Burwell provided the following testimony at the evidentiary hearing with respect to this
issue. After Holloway testified at trial, Burwell asked Martin why Martin did not ask Holloway
24
about Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004. Tr. 36:15—38:13, 73:6—74:5 (Dec. 1, 2015).
Specifically, Burwell talked with Martin about this issue immediately after Holloway’s testimony,
but then discussed it more in depth outside of the courtroom. Id. at 75:1-19. Burwell characterized
Martin’s explanation as follows: “The thing what he told me, to my recollection, was he did not
want Mr. Holloway really as a witness, period. He said that I was the one who was adamant about
pushing him as a witness.” Id. at 75:1-4. Martin also told Burwell that he was focused on
presenting testimony from Holloway regarding the DNA on the flak jacket. See, e.g., id. at 38:7-
10 (“I guess he basically was telling me that he wanted to get more of an explanation on the Flak
jacket because it was, I guess, by cash or weapons or something like that.”); id. at 76:8-10 (“[H]e
told me basically he just wanted to question him and get the explanation for the DNA.”); id. at
76:25—77:4 (“I think the reason why he told me that he did not do it is because he was more
concerned at the time about the DNA on the Flak jacket and being explained of how it got there –
how the DNA got on the Flak jacket and the Flak jacket was close to all those weapons.”). Burwell
explained:
All I know is he told me that he was focused on the DNA on the Flak jacket and
wanted an explanation for it. As far as why he didn’t call – excuse me, why he
didn’t ask him the questions about that, he really didn’t go into too much detail
about it, he just basically – we were in the back, you know, we were in the back
where they hold us in District Court. So we came back there. My other co-
defendants’ counsel was back there, you know, speaking with them. And he was
just like, you know, at the time he didn’t feel as though it was, I don’t want to say
appropriate, but he just said he felt that – he wanted to question about the DNA.
Id. at 78:4-15. As such, according to Burwell, Martin’s explanation was that he did not want to
call Holloway at all (a point undisputed by Martin and clear from the record), and that the only
thing that Martin wanted Holloway to explain was the presence of Burwell’s DNA on the flak
25
jacket.
Despite only questioning Holloway about the flak jacket, it is Burwell’s contention that
Martin knew that Holloway would truthfully testify that Burwell and Holloway were together on
May 27, 2004, but Martin did not ask him. Id. at 73:25—74:5. By Burwell’s account, Martin
never really gave an explanation beyond that described above as to why he did not ask Holloway
about Burwell’s whereabouts during the first bank robbery. However, Burwell contends that
Martin told him after the trial concluded that he “messed up” with respect to this issue. Id. at
73:17-18. Moreover, the record reflects that Martin never asked to recall Holloway as a witness
and Burwell indicated that he did not ask Martin to do so because he did not know that he could
make such a request. Id. at 38:11-13.
Martin gave a conflicting account of the events at issue during the evidentiary hearing.
Specifically, Martin, who maintained that he had not been told by Burwell about Holloway’s
potential alibi testimony, testified that he did not remember Burwell asking him why he did not
elicit alibi testimony from Holloway after he left the stand. Id. at 118:15-19, 158:15-17. Martin
further indicated that he was surprised when he saw Burwell’s affidavit related to the instant
motion in which Burwell stated that he asked Martin about this point. Id. at 118:18-19. With
respect to his questioning of Holloway, Martin testified: “If there were questions to be asked of
Mr. Holloway that I failed to ask, I’m not shy; I would have asked the Court to recall the witnesses.
I hadn’t started practicing a week before and I have recalled witnesses with the permission of the
Court . . . .” Id. at 119:23—120:2. Martin also denied telling Burwell that he had “messed up.”
Id. at 120:3-5, 153:24—154:5.
Given that there is conflicting testimony regarding the communication between Martin and
26
Burwell after Holloway testified, the Court must determine which account to credit. To credit
Burwell’s account of the events after Holloway testified, the Court would have to accept that
despite calling Holloway as a witness, Martin blatantly ignored Burwell’s request to ask Holloway
about Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004. After this error was pointed out to him, Martin
failed to offer to recall the witness or to provide an explanation as to his decision to ask only about
the DNA evidence and not about the alibi, even after Holloway gave testimony consistent with
Burwell’s account regarding the DNA evidence. Moreover, the Court would have to accept that
after committing this error and not attempting to rectify it or inform Burwell of the ability to rectify
it by recalling the witness, Martin then told Burwell only after the trial that he messed up. This is
contrary to all the other evidence in the record demonstrating that Martin was diligent in his
representation of Burwell and worked closely with Burwell on developing his trial strategy.
Moreover, it is contradicted by Martin’s willingness to call Holloway in the first place at Burwell’s
request over his advice and despite his concerns that Holloway might perjure himself.
Finally, the Court notes that Martin’s account is supported by the fact that it otherwise
appears that Martin and Burwell worked closely and harmoniously together in preparing his
defense. Indeed, Burwell contended that prior to this issue with Holloway’s testimony, he and
Martin pretty much saw “eye-to-eye” on the issues because Burwell trusted Martin. Id. at 36:23-
25. Moreover, Martin described Burwell as “actively involved” in his defense, and indicated that
they went over various matters such as trial strategy. Id. at 102:7-9. Martin’s description of
Burwell’s participation in his defense is supported by Burwell’s handwritten notes regarding his
defense in Martin’s files and Martin’s list of questions to ask Burwell in the preparation of his
defense.
27
D. Martin’s and Jones’ dealings with Holloway prior to his testimony
Burwell raised two additional issues with respect to Martin securing Holloway as a witness
at trial. First, Burwell introduced evidence that Jones might have spoken with Holloway while he
was represented by counsel. Second, as discussed supra, the record reflects that unbeknownst to
Martin, Jones had failed to properly serve Holloway with two subpoenas. For the reasons
described herein, the Court finds that these facts do not demonstrate that Martin rendered
ineffective assistance to Burwell.
Turning first to the counsel issue, Holloway testified that he told Jones at some point that
he was represented by counsel, id. at 9:12-14, but he was unsure if Jones inquired about this before
they spoke during their first meeting, id. at 9:15-17. Martin’s notes confirm the fact that Holloway
was represented by counsel and that Holloway’s counsel indicated that Holloway would not testify.
Indeed, in the typed notes saved in a document in Martin’s “2255” electronic file, there is a notation
dated May 6, 2005, that reads: “Discussion with REON HOLLOWAY’s atty who has advised RH
not to testify.” Def.’s Ex. 2 at 1. The next entry dated May 10, 2005, indicates:
Discussion with DAVEY JONES who says that REON HOLLOWAY denies
knowing anything about a flak jacket or body armor.
Advised BB that we will subpoena REON but probably not call him to testify, since
we don’t know what he will say. Moreover, I am now concerned that BB is
interested in presenting perjured testimony.
Id. A third entry dated May 11, 2005, reads:
Discussion with BB regarding the testimony of RH. I told him that I didn’t
understand why RH would be unwilling to testify about the bullet proof vest if the
story is in fact true.
BB says that RH drinks a lot and may not remember details very well. He also says
that his atty has probably scared him by advising of potential hostility from the
28
OUSA. This is a plausible explanation, but I have no way of exploring this b/c I
cannot talk to or send DJ to talk to RH w/o his atty’s consent.
After explaining why I am hobbled, BB said that he would contact RH himself. I
cannot stop him from doing that, but I won’t assist him in that regard.
Id. At the evidentiary hearing, Martin testified that he assumed that Jones would have asked
Holloway if he was represented by counsel prior to speaking with him because Jones is a “seasoned
investigator.” Tr. 128:9-21 (Dec. 1, 2015). However, Martin conceded that it was inconsistent
that the notes reflect that Martin was advised on May 6, 2005, by Holloway’s attorney that
Holloway would not testify, and that on May 10, 2005, Jones had spoken with Holloway. Id. at
129:24—130:3. Regardless of this discrepancy, Holloway took the stand after Martin and
Holloway’s attorney spoke to each other and Holloway during a recess on June 15, 2005. Tr.
7270:6—7272:19 (Jun. 15, 2005). After returning from that recess, Martin indicated that there
was no Fifth Amendment issue with regard to the testimony of Holloway. Id. at 7273:10-14. As
such, the Court concludes that even if the Jones improperly spoke with Holloway while he was
represented by counsel, Burwell was not prejudiced by this in any way. Indeed, after a discussion
between Martin and Holloway’s counsel, Holloway testified on Burwell’s behalf.
Turning to the subpoena issue, Martin testified that he has a practice of calling witnesses
to Court a day or two in advance of the actual day that he expects them to testify in order to see if
they appear, to talk to them about their testimony, and to tell them what to expect when they testify.
Tr. 111:4-11 (Dec. 1, 2015). Martin testified that he filed the “Defendant’s Ex Parte Motion for
Subpoenas,” Govt.’s Ex. J, in order to make sure that Holloway and the other identified witnesses
appeared to testify at trial. Tr. 110:22-25 (Dec. 1, 2015).
As discussed in depth supra, Martin informed the Court during the trial that Holloway
29
failed to respond to two subpoenas and, as such, requested that the Court direct the Marshals to
bring him to Court. However, upon further inquiry from the Court, it appeared that Jones had not
properly served Holloway with either subpoena. At the evidentiary hearing, Martin acknowledged
that he did not know that Jones had not served the first subpoena when he talked to Holloway in
April or May 2005, 7 or that Jones had not effectively served the second subpoena issued in June
2005. 8 Id. at 151:11—152:14. Martin further acknowledged that communication between him
and Jones regarding the subpoena issue could have been better, id. at 152:23, and that this mistake
could have led to the Marshals improperly being sent to pick up Holloway, id. at 153:6-23.
Burwell presented this evidence to support his claim that Martin provided ineffective
assistance to him and highlighted that the notes in the document that Martin had saved in the
“2255” folder end on June 13, 2005, the day before the issue of the non-service of the subpoenas
was brought before the Court. Def.’s Ex. 2. However, the issue of the service of the subpoena is
tangential to the issue before the Court at this juncture, namely whether Martin knew that Holloway
could present alibi testimony for May 27, 2004. While the failure to properly serve Holloway with
the subpoenas raises some concerns about the investigator’s performance in the instant action, the
fact remains that Holloway was brought to Court from CTF and did testify at trial. As such, the
7
While it appears from the record during the trial that Holloway was not properly served,
Holloway testified at the evidentiary hearing that he thought Jones gave him a subpoena during
their second meeting. Tr. 20:4-5 (Dec. 1, 2015). However, the trial record reflects that Jones
indicated that he interviewed Holloway in April or early May but did not serve him with the first
subpoena. Tr. 6945:12-15 (Jun. 14, 2005).
8
During the trial, Jones stated that he tried to serve Holloway at his home address, but was
told that Holloway was not home. Tr. 6944:17-20 (Jun. 14, 2005). Jones indicated that the woman
who answered the door would not accept the subpoena so Jones left the subpoena in the door. Id.
6945:1-6.
30
failure to serve Holloway with a subpoena did not prejudice Burwell because Holloway did testify.
To the extent that the evidence regarding the timing of Jones’ interview with Holloway and
Jones’ failure to serve Holloway with subpoenas was introduced to demonstrate a breakdown in
communication between Martin and Jones, the record does not reflect that even if there had been
better communication between Martin and Jones that it would have made a difference with respect
to the alibi testimony. Indeed, both Burwell and Holloway testified that they not only told Jones
about the potential alibi testimony but that they both told Martin directly. Accordingly, whether
or not they also told Jones and Jones failed to tell Martin is irrelevant to the ineffective assistance
of counsel claim. Furthermore, Martin indicated, and the Court credits, that Jones did not tell
Martin that Holloway could provide alibi testimony. 9
Burwell also argues that if Holloway had been properly served, Martin would have had an
opportunity to discuss the potential alibi testimony with Holloway prior to him taking the stand.
Presumably, this argument is premised on the notion that if Martin had a more in-depth
conversation with Holloway, he would have been more comfortable allowing him to present the
alibi testimony. However, if the Court accepts Burwell’s and Holloway’s account, Martin knew
about the alibi testimony and asked Holloway about it directly before Holloway testified so having
more time to speak with Holloway would not have made a difference. If the Court accepts Martin’s
account, Martin did not know about the potential alibi testimony so more witness preparation
would not have made a difference because this was not an issue flagged for Martin to explore with
9
The Court notes that in making this finding it directly rejects Holloway’s testimony that
implies Martin had knowledge that Holloway and Jones spoke about both the flak jacket and
Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004, when Martin and Holloway spoke shortly before he
testified.
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Holloway.
E. Post-conviction pleadings filed on Burwell’s behalf and by Burwell
Finally, the Court shall address two ancillary issues raised by the parties at the evidentiary
hearing that do not weigh heavily in favor of crediting one witness’s testimony over another’s
testimony. Specifically, Burwell raised the issue of Martin’s apparent understanding of the
possibility that Burwell would raise an ineffective assistance of counsel claim based on Martin’s
performance, and the Government raised the timing of Burwell ultimately identifying Holloway
by name as the alibi witnesses referenced in his post-conviction pleadings. In the interest of
completeness, the Court shall address each in turn.
During the evidentiary hearing, Burwell pointed to Martin’s electronic folder titled
“2255,” 10 that included a document with notes made contemporaneously with the trial and the
“Notice of Appeal” filed after Burwell was convicted that listed ineffective assistance of counsel
as one ground for appeal. These documents merely establish that Martin was aware of the
possibility that Burwell might raise an ineffective assistance claim. However, the fact that these
documents exist does not demonstrate that Martin’s performance was ineffective. Rather,
ineffective assistance of counsel claims are regularly brought against criminal defense attorneys.
The fact that the claim is raised on direct appeal or that a criminal defense attorney anticipates that
such a claim will be raised against him and keeps certain records in the event that he needs to
respond to such a claim does not demonstrate that the attorney was, in fact, ineffective.
The Government pointed to the fact that Burwell did not raise his ineffective assistance of
10
Presumably the title of this folder references 28 U.S.C. § 2255, the section of the code
under which the instant motion was brought.
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counsel claim until he filed the instant § 2255 motion and did not identify Holloway by name as
the alibi witness he referenced until ordered to do so by the Court as reasons why Burwell should
not be credited. The fact that Burwell first raised an ineffective assistance of counsel claim in the
instant motion, after the final ruling on his appeal, does not demonstrate that he did not have
concerns about Martin’s performance. Moreover, the fact that he first identified Holloway by
name as the alibi witnesses referenced in response to a Court Order after the matter was fully
briefed does not demonstrate that he fabricated the claim. Burwell proceeded pro se and,
accordingly, the Court construes his pro se pleadings liberally. Indeed, in Burwell’s
“Memorandum of Law In Support of Motion to Vacate, Set Aside, or Correct Sentence Pursuant
to 28 USC § 2255,” filed alongside his original § 2255 motion, Burwell alleges Martin’s failed to
properly investigate and interview an “alibi witness” who was “key to connection of DNA on one
of the flash [sic] jackets found at one of the alleged stash houses.” Def.’s Memo. at 18. As such,
the Court concludes that this issue raised by the Government neither supports nor discredits
Burwell’s account of the events at issue.
F. Court’s credibility determinations and conclusions
Based on the evidence before it and after observing the demeanor of Holloway, Burwell,
and Martin and weighing their credibility, the Court finds that Martin’s performance did not fall
below an objective standard of reasonableness because Martin was not informed that Holloway
could present alibi testimony on Burwell’s behalf for the May 27, 2004, bank robbery. In reaching
this determination, the Court specifically credits Martin’s testimony that he was never told by
Burwell, Holloway, or Jones of this potential testimony prior to or during trial and, instead, that
he was only informed by Burwell of Holloway’s ability to testify regarding the DNA evidence
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recovered from the flak jacket. Moreover, the Court notes that this finding is supported not only
by Martin’s credible testimony during the evidentiary hearing but by the record before it which
includes Martin’s thorough notes and letters as well as Burwell’s notes and letters made prior to
and during trial. Indeed, these documents specifically discuss Holloway as a potential witness to
explain the presence of Burwell’s DNA on one of the flak jackets in evidence but there is no
notation in any of these documents that Holloway also may be able to provide information as to
Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004. Moreover, the Court credits Martin’s explanation as to
how he would have proceeded had he been provided with this information in light of other actions
that Martin took on Burwell’s behalf in the instant action. Specifically, Martin’s notes reflect that
Burwell identified Brenda Ramirez as a potential alibi for the June 12, 2004, bank robbery, and,
in response to that information, Martin followed the proper procedures and Ramirez presented alibi
testimony on Burwell’s behalf at trial. Finally, the Court finds it implausible that Burwell objected
to Martin’s failure to elicit alibi testimony on the same day that Holloway testified and Martin did
not offer to recall the witness or offer any real explanation regarding his decision to only ask about
the flak jacket and not Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004.
In reaching this holding, the Court credits Martin’s account over Burwell’s and Holloway’s
account with respect to whether Martin was informed at any point prior to Burwell filing an
affidavit related to the instant § 2255 motion that Burwell and Holloway were together on May 27,
2004. Indeed, the only evidence in the record rebutting Martin’s contention that he was not told
of Holloway’s potential alibi testimony is Burwell’s and Holloway’s testimony given at the
evidentiary hearing. Burwell’s and Holloway’s accounts that they both told Martin that they were
together on May 27, 2004, are not supported in any other way by the record and both accounts
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include specific details that both Burwell and Holloway contend were never communicated to
Martin, including the presence of other people on the day in question and the fact that they took
Burwell’s father out that day to get him drunk for his birthday.
In order to accept Burwell’s and Holloway’s accounts over Martin’s, the Court would have
to accept that Burwell told Martin of Holloway’s ability to testify as to both the flak jacket and his
whereabouts on May 27, 2004; that Martin never made a notation in otherwise thorough notes
about the potential alibi but did make notations regarding the flak jacket on more than one
occasion; that Burwell in his notes provided to Martin indicated that Holloway could testify
regarding the DNA on the flak jacket but never noted that he could provide an alibi for May 27,
2004; that Martin met with Holloway on the cellblock immediately before he called him to testify
and that Martin asked Holloway both about the flak jacket and Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27,
2004; that after that conversation, Holloway was left with the impression that Martin would ask
him both about the flak jacket and about Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004; that shortly
thereafter, Martin called Holloway to the stand and after he testified as Burwell indicated that he
would with respect to the flak jacket, Martin decided for some reason not to ask Holloway about
Burwell’s whereabouts on May 27, 2004; that Martin made the decision to only ask about the flak
jacket but never provided Burwell with a real explanation as to why he made that decision when
pressed, other than to indicate that he wanted to focus on the presence of the DNA on the flak
jacket; that after being pressed by Burwell as to why he failed to ask Holloway about Burwell’s
whereabouts on May 27, 2004, Martin did not recall the witness or offer to recall the witness; and,
in contrast, that Martin did call Brenda Ramirez as an alibi when, as Martin’s notes reflect, Burwell
identified her as an alibi for a different date, June 12, 2004.
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In sum, the Court would have to find that Martin talked to both Burwell and Holloway
about Holloway’s potential alibi testimony11 and, despite talking to Holloway about this possible
testimony shortly before he testified, decided for some reason not to elicit this testimony or rectify
his failure to ask about this when it was brought to his attention by Burwell after the fact. The
Court rejects this account of the incidents in light of the evidence before it and after weighing the
witnesses’ credibility based on its own observations of the witnesses’ demeanor at the evidentiary
hearing. Accordingly, the Court concludes that Burwell’s ineffective assistance of counsel claim
related to Martin’s alleged failure to present alibi testimony for the May 27, 2004, bank robbery
from Holloway during trial fails because Martin was never informed of this potential testimony
until Burwell’s pro se filing of the instant § 2255 motion and related pleadings. As such, the Court
finds that Martin’s performance with respect to this issue did not fall below an objective standard
of reasonableness.
G. Burwell’s supplemental argument regarding Johnson v. United States
After briefing was complete and the evidentiary hearing was held, Burwell sent a pro se
“Motion to Supplement His Section 2255, In Light of Johnson v. United States, 135 S. Ct. 2551
(June 26, 2015),” which the Court granted leave to file. In the supplement, Burwell asserts that
his conviction for using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence on or
about June 12, 2004 (“Count XI”) should be vacated in light of the Supreme Court of the United
11
The Court can infer from Holloway’s testimony that based on his account, Martin also
knew that Holloway told Jones about the alibi testimony, which would require the Court to accept
that Martin had conversations with three separate people – Burwell, Holloway, and Jones – about
Holloway’s alibi testimony and he still did not ask Holloway about it on the stand or note it in his
records.
36
States’ recent holding in Johnson v. United States, 135 S. Ct. 2551 (2015). For the reasons
described herein, the Court finds Burwell’s argument is without merit.
Burwell was convicted of using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence in
violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(B)(ii). Pursuant to § 924(c)(3), a crime of violence is defined
as an offense that is a felony and: “has as an element the use, attempted use, or threatened use of
physical force against the person or property of another, or . . . that by its nature, involves a
substantial risk that physical force against the person or property of another may be used in the
course of committing the offense.”
Here, Burwell argues the crime of violence that supported his conviction under § 924(c)
was the armed robbery of the Industrial Bank on or about June 12, 2004 (“Count X”). Burwell
further argues that armed bank robbery of which he was convicted pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 2113(a)
and (d), is not a crime of violence. While Burwell cites to Johnson v. United States, 135 S. Ct.
2551 (2015), in support of his argument, that case is not applicable to the facts of the instant case.
Rather, Johnson addresses the unconstitutionality of enhanced sentences under the residual clause
of the Armed Career Criminal Act, codified at 18 U.S.C. § 924(e). Burwell was convicted pursuant
a different section of the same statute, § 924(c), and his conviction did not rest on a finding that he
was an armed career criminal based on an analysis under the residual clause. Instead, Burwell was
convicted of using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence, and an armed bank robbery
under 18 U.S.C. § 2113(a) and (d), meets the definition of a crime of violence. Indeed, § 2113(d)
provides an enhanced sentence for a person who during the commission of a bank robbery “assaults
any person, or puts in jeopardy the life of any person by the use of a dangerous weapon or device.”
Here, as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit noted, Burwell “carried an
37
AK-47 in both of the robberies in which he participated, though there is no evidence he fired any
of the weapons.” United States v. Burwell, 690 F.3d 500, 502 (D.C. Cir. 2012). Accordingly,
Burwell’s carrying of the AK-47 during the bank robbery for which he was convicted satisfies the
“crime of violence” requirement under § 924(c). As such, the Court concludes that there is no
reason to set aside Burwell’s conviction based on the arguments raised in his supplemental brief.
H. Certificate of Appealability
When the district court enters a final order resolving a petition under 28 U.S.C. § 2255 that
is adverse to the petitioner, it must either issue or deny a certificate of appealability. Rules
Governing Section 2255 Proceedings for the United States District Courts, Rule 11(a). By statute,
“[a] certificate of appealability may issue . . . only if the applicant has made a substantial showing
of the denial of a constitutional right.” 28 U.S.C. § 2253(c)(2). Such a showing demands that
Burwell demonstrate that “reasonable jurists could debate whether . . . the petition should have
been resolved in a different manner or that the issues presented were ‘adequate to deserve
encouragement to proceed further.’” Slack v. McDaniel, 529 U.S. 473, 484 (2000) (quoting
Barefoot v. Estelle, 463 U.S. 880, 893 & n.4 (1983)). For the reasons set forth above and in the
Court’s earlier Memorandum Opinions and Orders that have been incorporated herein, the Court
concludes that Burwell has failed to make that showing in this case, and, accordingly, no certificate
of appealability shall issue from this Court. To the extent Burwell intends to file an appeal, he
must seek a Certificate of Appealability from the United States Court of Appeals for the District
of Columbia Circuit in accordance with Federal Rule of Appellate Procedure 22(b).
IV. CONCLUSION
For the foregoing reasons, the Court finds no reason to set aside Burwell’s conviction or
38
sentence. Accordingly, Burwell’s [822] Motion Under 28 U.S.C. § 2255 to Vacate, Set Aside, or
Correct Sentence is DENIED in its entirety for the reasons set forth in the instant Memorandum
Opinion as well as its Memorandum Opinions issued on January 15, 2015, and March 12, 2015,
which the Court INCORPORATES herein. Furthermore, no Certificate of Appealability shall
issue from this Court. To the extent Burwell intends to file an appeal, he must seek a Certificate
of Appealability from the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in
accordance with Federal Rule of Appellate Procedure 22.
An appropriate Order accompanies this Memorandum Opinion.
This is a final, appealable order.
/s/
COLLEEN KOLLAR-KOTELLY
UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE
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