Com. v. Dickerson, I.

J-S65022-17

NON-PRECEDENTIAL DECISION - SEE SUPERIOR COURT I.O.P. 65.37

COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA : IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF
: PENNSYLVANIA
:
v. :
:
:
ISAIAH DICKERSON :
:
Appellant : No. 79 EDA 2017

Appeal from the Judgment of Sentence October 28, 2016
In the Court of Common Pleas of Delaware County
Criminal Division at No(s): CP-23-CR-0006546-2015

BEFORE: OLSON, J., OTT, J., and MUSMANNO, J.

MEMORANDUM BY OTT, J.: FILED DECEMBER 28, 2017

Isaiah Dickerson appeals from the judgment of sentence imposed

October 28, 2016, in the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas. The trial

court sentenced Dickerson to an aggregate term of 54 to 120 months’

imprisonment followed by five years’ consecutive probation, after finding him

guilty of robbery, criminal conspiracy, and possessing an instrument of crime

(“PIC”),1 for a June 2015, hold-up of a Sunoco gas station convenience store.

On appeal, Dickerson challenges the sufficiency and weight of the evidence

identifying him as one of the perpetrators of the crime. For the reasons below,

we affirm.

The facts underlying Dickerson’s arrest and conviction are well-known

to the parties and recounted in detail in the trial court’s opinion. See Trial
____________________________________________

1 18 Pa.C.S. §§ 3701(a)(1)(ii), 907(a), and 903, respectively.
J-S65022-17

Court’s Opinion, 6/6/2017, at 10-14, 23 n.35. Accordingly, we need not

reiterate them herein. To summarize, on June 18, 2015, at approximately

6:15 p.m., Dickerson and a cohort, with their faces partially covered, robbed

a convenience store clerk at gunpoint. The clerk recognized Dickerson as a

prior patron of the store, and positively identified him from a photo array.

Dickerson was subsequently arrested, and charged with, inter alia,

robbery, conspiracy, and PIC. At the preliminary hearing, the clerk refused to

identify Dickerson as one of the robbers, although he acknowledged that he

had previously identified Dickerson from a photo array. Dickerson, thereafter,

filed a notice of alibi defense. On July 11, 2016, the case proceeded to a non-

jury trial. At trial, the clerk positively identified Dickerson as the gun-wielding

robber, and explained he had been reluctant to testify at the preliminary

hearing for fear of his safety. On July 14, 2016, the trial court found Dickerson

guilty of all charges.

The case proceeded to sentencing on October 28, 2016. The trial court

sentenced Dickerson to a term of 54 to 120 months’ imprisonment for the

robbery conviction, a concurrent term of five years’ probation for the

conspiracy conviction, and a term of five years’ probation for the PIC

conviction to run consecutively to the robbery sentence, but concurrently to

the conspiracy sentence. Dickerson filed timely post-sentence motions

challenging the weight and sufficiency of the evidence. Following a hearing,

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J-S65022-17

the court denied the motions on November 28, 2016. This timely appeal

follows.2

On appeal, Dickerson challenges the sufficiency and weight of the

evidence as it relates to his identification as one of the perpetrators of the

crime. First, he argues the evidence was insufficient to establish his identity

because the store clerk “did not make an identification of [him] close in time

to the crime” and no corroborating evidence was found at the time of his

arrest. Dickerson’s Brief at 12-13. Moreover, he emphasizes the clerk had

his phone number, and was aware of his identifying tattoos from their prior

encounters, but never provided that information to the police. See id. at 13.

Similarly, Dickerson also asserts the verdict was against the weight of the

evidence because the clerk’s identification of him was “conflicting and

incredible.” Id. at 14.

When considering a challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence, “[t]he

standard we apply … is whether viewing all the evidence admitted at trial in

the light most favorable to the verdict winner, there is sufficient evidence to

enable the fact-finder to find every element of the crime beyond a reasonable

doubt.” Commonwealth v. Valentine, 101 A.3d 801, 805 (Pa. Super. 2014)

(quotation omitted), appeal denied, 124 A.3d 309 (Pa. 2015). Furthermore,

____________________________________________

2 On January 4, 2017, the trial court ordered Dickerson to file a concise
statement of errors complained of on appeal pursuant to Pa.R.A.P. 1925(b).
After requesting and receiving an extension of time, Dickerson complied with
the court’s directive and filed a concise statement on March 2, 2017,

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J-S65022-17

with respect to a specific claim that the identification of the defendant as

perpetrator is flawed, we must bear in mind the following:

In determining whether a particular identification was reliable, the
court “should consider the opportunity of the witness to view the
criminal at the time of the crime, the witness’ degree of attention,
the accuracy of [his or her] prior description of the criminal, the
level of certainty demonstrated at the confrontation, and the time
between the crime and the confrontation. The opportunity of the
witness to view the actor at the time of the crime is the key factor
in the totality of the circumstances analysis.” Commonwealth v.
Bruce, 717 A.2d 1033, 1037 (Pa.Super.1998) (citations omitted).

[E]vidence of identification need not be positive and certain
to sustain a conviction. Although common items of clothing
and general physical characteristics are usually insufficient
to support a conviction, such evidence can be used as other
circumstances to establish the identity of a perpetrator.
Out-of-court identifications are relevant to our review of
sufficiency of the evidence claims, particularly when they
are given without hesitation shortly after the crime while
memories were fresh. Given additional evidentiary
circumstances, any indefiniteness and uncertainty in the
identification testimony goes to its weight.

Commonwealth v. Orr, 38 A.3d 868, 874 (Pa.Super.2011).

Id. at 806.

When considering a challenge to the weight of the evidence, we must

bear in mind:

A weight of the evidence claim concedes that the evidence is
sufficient to sustain the verdict, but seeks a new trial on the
ground that the evidence was so one-sided or so weighted in favor
of acquittal that a guilty verdict shocks one’s sense of justice.

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J-S65022-17

Commonwealth v. Lyons, 79 A.3d 1053, 1067 (Pa. 2013) (citations

omitted), cert. denied, 134 S.Ct. 1792 (U.S. 2014). Our review of a weight

claim is well-settled:3

Appellate review of a weight claim is a review of the exercise of
discretion, not of the underlying question of whether the verdict
is against the weight of the evidence. Because the trial judge has
had the opportunity to hear and see the evidence presented, an
appellate court will give the gravest consideration to the findings
and reasons advanced by the trial judge when reviewing a trial
court’s determination that the verdict is against the weight of the
evidence. One of the least assailable reasons for granting or
denying a new trial is the lower court’s conviction that the verdict
was or was not against the weight of the evidence and that a new
trial should be granted in the interest of justice.

However, the exercise of discretion by the trial court in granting
or denying a motion for a new trial based on a challenge to the
weight of the evidence is not unfettered. The propriety of the
exercise of discretion in such an instance may be assessed by the
appellate process when it is apparent that there was an abuse of
that discretion.

Commonwealth v. Widmer, 744 A.2d 745, 753 (Pa. 2000) (internal

citations omitted).

After our independent review of the record, the parties’ briefs, and the

relevant statutory and case law, we find the trial court thoroughly analyzed

and properly disposed of Dickerson’s claims on appeal in its June 6, 2017,

opinion. See Trial Court Opinion, 6/6/2017, at 5-33 (finding (1) evidence was

sufficient to establish Dickerson was one of the assailants because the store

clerk (a) was acquainted with Dickerson as a prior customer, (b) identified

____________________________________________

3 We note Dickerson properly preserved his weight of the evidence claim in a
timely filed post-sentence motion. See Pa.R.Crim.P. 607(A)(3).

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J-S65022-17

Dickerson from photo array, and (c) contacted police after he recognized

Dickerson’s mother’s vehicle; (2) Dickerson’s height and age matched clerk’s

description; and (3) verdict was not against the weight of the evidence

because clerk’s prior refusal to identify Dickerson at preliminary hearing was

due to clerk’s concern for his safety). Accordingly, we rest on its well-

reasoned bases.

Judgment of sentence affirmed.

Judgment Entered.

Joseph D. Seletyn, Esq.
Prothonotary

Date: 12/28/17

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Jun 06 2017 01:46PM HP FaxJudge Kelly 6108915482 page 2

Circulated 12/13/2017 01:46 PM

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF DELAWARE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
CRIMINAL

COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA NO. 6546-15

v.
ISAIAH DICKERSON Superior Court No. 79 EDA 2017

A. Sheldon Kovach, Esquire - Deputy District Attorney for the Commonwealth
Shaka M. Johnson, Esquire - Attomey for Isaiah Dickerson

OPINION

Kelly, J. Date: June 6, 2017

L Case History

A criminal complaint was filed on July 27, 2015, by Deputy Chief Richard Herron,

Sharon Hill Police Department, charging Isaiah Dickerson (hereinafter referred to as

"Defendant" or "Dickerson") with, inter alia, robbery (threaten immediate serious bodily

injury). 1 On July 28, 2015, the magisterial district judge issued for the Defendant a resulting

arrest warrant. See Arrest Warrant, No. CR-484-15 - Magisterial District Court 32-2-37, dated

July 28, 2015.

A preliminary hearing was held on October 28, 2015, before the magisterial district court

at which the prosecution sought to amend the criminal complaint to add allegations of possessing

instruments of crime2 and criminal conspiracy3 to commit a11 charged offenses. After the
Jun Ub .::'.U1 r U1:4bfJM HfJ 1-axJudge Kelly b1U8Y1'.:>48.::'. page 3

Commonwealth's presentation of evidence, the magisterial district judge held Defendant

Dickerson for trial court purposes as to all prosecuted crimes, including the amended charges.

The Defendant was formally arraigned on November 25, 2015, at which time the Office

of the Delaware County District Attorney lodged again him a criminal information averring,

inter alia, the following: Count 1 - Robbery (Threaten Immediate Serious Bodily Injury);" Count

9 - Possessing Instruments of Crime;" and Count 11 - Criminal Conspiracy to commit Robbery

(Threaten Immediate Serious Bodily Injury).6

On February 19, 2016, Defendant Dickerson filed a counseled Notice of Alibi Defense.

See Alibi Defense Notice dated February 19, 2016. See generally Pa.R.Crim.P. 567.

The prosecution on March 21, 2016, lodged its Reciprocal Notice of Witnesses Pursuant

to Pa.R.Crim.P. 567(c) In Response to Defendant's Alibi Notice. See Commonwealth's

Reciprocal Notice dated March 21, 2016.

A non-jury trial commenced on July 11, 2016, before this court.7 N.T. 7/11/16. See also

Defendant's Waiver of Jury TriaJ. Because of witness availability concerns. the trial, without

objection, was adjourned until July 13, 2016, after the testimonial appearance of one (1)

Commonwealth witness, the victim, Javon Abraham. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 13-17, 93. On July 13,

2016, the trial as then scheduled resumed and concluded. N.T. 7/13/16. Absent opposition, the

court as the sole finder of fact for deliberative purposes took its tria] decision under advisement

and by agreement of counsel set the verdict's announcement for July 14, 2016. See Pa.R.Crim.P.

620, 621, and 622.

The court on July 14, 2016, announced its verdict finding the Defendant guilty of the

following: Count 1 - Robbery (Threaten Immediate Serious Bodily Injury),8 Count 9 -

Possessing Instruments of Crime;9 and Count 11 - Criminal Conspiracy to commit Robbery

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(Threaten Immediate Serious Bodily lnjury).10 N.T. 7/14/16, pp. 4-5. See also Verdict.

Immediately fo11owing the verdict, the prosecution orally moved, of-record, for Defendant

Dickerson's bail to be revoked or in the alternative, increased. The court increased the

Defendant's bail, instructed he was also subject to electronic home monitoring, assuming

necessary bai) funds were posted, ordered no contact with the victim, and that he was to stay

away from the robbery scene, a Sunoco gas station.!' N.T. 7/14/16, p. 6. This court as such an

aid directed a presentence investigation. N.T. 7/14/16, p. 6. See generally Pa.R.Crim.P. 702.

The court listed sentencing for September 13, 2016. N.T. 7/14/16, p. 7.

A sentencing hearing proceeded before this court on October 28, 2016.12 N.T. 10/28/16.

This court then sentenced Defendant Dickerson to the following: Count I (Robbery - Threaten

Immediate Serious Bodily Injury)13 -A term of fifty-four (54) through one hundred twenty (120)

months incarceration at a state correctional facility; Count 11 (Criminal Conspiracy to commit

Robbery - Threaten Immediate Serious Bodily injury)14 - A five (5) year period of state

probationary oversight to run consecutive to count 1 (robbery - threaten immediate serious

bodily injury);" and Count 9 (Possessing Instruments of Crime)16 - A term of five (5) years

probationary supervision to be served consecutive to the imprisonment of the robbery count (1)

and concurrent to the same period of probation per count 11 (criminal conspiracy to commit

robbery - threaten immediate serious bodily injury).17 The Defendant was afforded the

applicable time served credit and deemed for both boot camp participation and recidivism risk
18

reduction incentive consideration ineligible.19 N.T. 10/28/16, pp. 24-26. See also Certificate of

Imposition of Judgment of Sentence.

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Jun Ub iU'I r U'l:4bl-'M HI-' t-axJudge Kelly b'IU��·1:i4�i page :,

On November 4, 2016, Defendant Dickerson lodged counseled, Post-Sentencing Motions

Pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure 720. See Post-Sentencing Motions dated

November 4, 2016.

As past scheduled, a hearing relevant to the Defendant's post-sentence motions took

place on November 23, 2016, before this court. See Hearing Notice dated November 9, 2016.

N.T. 11/23/16.

This court via an order of November 28, 2016, denied the Defendant's post-sentence

motions. See Order dated November 28, 2016.

Defendant Dickerson on December 28, 2016, filed a Notice of Appeal from this court's

sentencing judgment made final by his post-sentence motions' denial. See Order dated

November 28, 2016, and Notice of Appeal dated December 28, 2016. See also Superior Court

No. 79 EDA 2017.

Through an order dated January 4, 2017, this court instructed the Defendant's attorney to

lodge a concise statement of matters compJained. See Order dated January 4, 2017. See also

Pa.R.A.P. I 925(b).

Defendant Dickerson on January 25, 2017. filed a counseled Petition for Extension of

Time to File Concise Statement of Errors Complained of on Appeal. See Petition for Extension

of Time dated January 25, 2017. This court in an order of February 3, 2017, granted the

defense's extension application. See Order dated February 3, 2017.

On March 2, 2017, the Defendant lodged his counseled, appellate complaints statement

asserting the error assignments discussed below. See Statement of Matters Complained dated

March 2, 2017.20

4
.JUll UO LUI I Ul;'+/t'l•I Ht' rclX.JUUSJE= l'\E=llY OIUO�l:.J'+OL

JI. Discussion

A. Sufficiency of the Evidence

Defendant Dickerson through three (3) of his complaints on appeal" maintains that each

of his convictions do not rest on legally sound evidence. See Statement of Matters Complained,

No. 2(b)(c)(d).

"In order to preserve a challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence on appeal, the

appellant's Rule 1925(b) statement must state with specificity the element or elements of the

crime upon which the appellant alleges the evidence was insufficient. Commonwealth v.

Garland, 63 A.3d 339, 344 (PaSuper. 2013); Commonwealth v. Gibbs, 981 A.2d 274, 2&1

(Pa.Super. 2009). 'Such specificity is of particular importance in cases, where, as here, the

appellant was convicted of multiple crimes each of which contains numerous elements that the

Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt' Garland, 63 A.3d at 344 (quoting

Gibbs, 981 A.2d at 281)." Commonwealth v. Veon, 109 A.3d 754, 775 (Pa.Super. 2015),

reversed on other grounds, 150 A.3d 435 (Pa. 2016). See also Commonwealth v, McCree, 857

A.2d 188, 192 (Pa.Super. 2004) citing Commonwealth v. Lemon, 804 A.2d 34, 37 (Pa.Super.

2002); and Commonwealth v. Seibert, 799 A.2d 54, 62 (Pa.Super. 2002).

The Defendant via his appellate complaints statement claiming as a matter of law his

convictions cannot be sustained certainly on its face complies with the letter of this appeals court

directive that sufficiency challenges for appe11ate review must be averred with such specificity.

See Statement of Matters Complained, No. 2(b)(c)(d). However, such error assignments when

viewed in the context of the trial are seen to be either just various restatements of the defense's

contention the evidence was insufficient legally to prove Defendant Dickerson was in fact the

armed robber or are contrary to the spirit underlying the mandate of alleging with particularity

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JUn uo LU I I U I ;4 w1·1 Ht' r-ax.ucqe t\ellY O I uo� I ::J40.:'. page r

the targeted crimes' supposedly lacking elements(s), because once as a matter of Jaw his

identification is established, any arguments that the other requisite proofs of his convictions are

legally deficient on the instant record are just frivolous.22 The thrust of this court's below

discussion will thus focus on the legaJ sufficiency of the trial evidence salient to the Defendant' s

identification with summary commentary about the se1f-evident nature of his convictions'

additional, necessary elements being as a matter oflaw proven.

In evaluating any type of sufficiency claim, the court must accept the evidence in the

light most favorable to the Commonwealth and also drawing all rational evidentiary inferences

such supports determine whether a reasonable jury could have found that each element of the

crime(s) charged was established beyond a reasonable doubt. Commonwealth v. Patterson, 940

A.2d 493, 500 (Pa.Super. 2007) and Commonwealth v. Rosario, 438 Pa.Super. 241, 260-61, 652

A.2d 354, 364 (1994) citing Commonwealth v. Calderini, 416 Pa.Super. 258, 260-61, 611 A.2d

206, 207 (1992) citing Commonwealth v. Jackson, 506 Pa. 469, 472-73, 485 A.2d 1102, 1103

(1984). A court reviewing a sufficiency challenge " ... may not weigh the evidence and

substitute [its] judgment for the fact-finder." Commonwealth v. Orr, 38 A.3d 868, 872

(Pa.Super. 2011) citing Commonwealth v. Hansley, 24 A.3d 410, 416 (Pa.Super. 2011) quoting

Commonwealth v. Jones, 874 A.2d 108, 120-21 (Pa.Super. 2005) quoting Commonwealth v.

Bul/ick, 830 A.2d 998, 1000 (Pa.Super. 2003) quoting Commonwealth v. Gooding, 818 A.2d

546, 549 (PaSuper. 2003), appeal denied, 575 Pa. 691, 835 A.2d 709 (2003).

The evidence at trial need not" ' ... preclude every possibility ofinnocence, and the fact

finder is free to resolve any doubts regarding a defendant's guilt.' " Commonwealth v, Hansley

supra 24 A.3d at 416 quoting Commonwealth v, Jones supra 874 A.2d at 120-21 quoting

Commonwealth v. Bu/lick supra 830 A.2d at 1000 quoting Commonwealth v. Gooding supra 818

6
 page �

A.2d at 549, appeal denied, 575 Pa. 691, 835 A.2d 709. Although a conviction must be based on

" ... more than mere suspicion or conjecture, the Commonwealth need not establish guilt to a

mathematical certainty." Commonwealth v. Davis, 861 A.2d 310, 323 (Pa.Super, 2004) citing

Commonwealth v, Coon, 695 A.2d 794, 797 (Pa.Super. 1997). " . . . [I]f the record contains

support for the convictions, they may not be disturbed." Id 861 A.2d at 323-24 citing

Commonwealth v. Marks, 704 A.2d l 095, 1098 (Pa.Super, 1997) citing Commonwealth v.

Mudrick, 510 Pa. 305, 308, 507 A.2d 1212, 1213 (1986).

These long-settled principles of law governing a sufficiency claim are equally applicable

to cases where the evidence is circumstantial rather than direct, provided that the combination of

inferential evidence links the accused to the criminality and/or establishes the crime's requisite

elernent(s) beyond a reasonable doubt. Commonwealth v. Krieg/er, 127 A.3d 840, 847

(Pa.Super. 2015) quoting Commonwealth v. Bartie, 894 A.2d 800, 803-04 (Pa.Super. 2006)

quoting Commonwealth v. Thomas, 867 A.2d 594, 597 (Pa.Super. 2005). See also

Commonwealth v. Cox, 546 Pa. 515, 528, 686 A.2d 1279, 1285 (1996).

In deciding whether as a matter of law the trial evidence was sufficient to sustain a

conviction, it must be remembered " '[w]hen evaluating the credibility and weight of the

evidence, the fact finder is free to believe all, part or none of the evidence.' .. Commonwealth v.

Patterson supra 940 A.2d at 500 quoting Commonwealth v. Emler, 903 A.2d 1273, 1276-77

(Pa.Super. 2006). See also Commonwealth v, Hansley supra 24 A.3d at 416. Furthermore, the

finder of fact is tasked with being the " ... sole judge[ ] of the credibility and weight of all

testimony," and is certainly free to reject or accept, in whole or part, the testimony of any

witness. Pa. SSJI (Crim) 2.04. Regarding the offered testimony and other trial evidence, the fact

finders in making such decisions may choose what they value and discount what they find

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Jun Ub LU1 f U1 :48f-!M Hf-! 1-axJudge Kelly b1 U8�1 �48L page �

unpersuasive. "This standard of deference is not altered in cases involving a bench tria1, because

'the province of a trial judge sitting without a jury is to do what a jury is required to do.' "

Commonwealth v. Lee, 956 A.2d 1024, 1027 (Pa.Super. 2000) quoting Commonwealth v.

Lambert, 765 A.2d 306, 362 (Pa.Super. 2000).

Relevant to the legal sufficiency of a defendant's identification, the Superior Court has

past held the folJowing:

In determining whether a particular identification was reliable, the
court 'should consider the opportunity of the witness to view the
criminal at the time of the crime, the witness' degree of attention,
the accuracy of [his or her] prior description of the criminal, the
level of certainty demonstrated at the confrontation, and the time
between the crime and the confrontation. The opportunity of the
witness to view the actor at the time of the crime is the key factor
in the totality of the circumstances analysis ....

• [E]vidence of identification need not be positive and certain to
sustain a conviction. Although common items of clothing and
general physica] characteristics are usually insufficient to support a
conviction, such evidence can be used as other circumstances to
establish the identity of a perpetrator. Out-of-court identifications
are relevant to our review of sufficiency of the evidence claims,
particularly when they are given without hesitation shortly after the
crime while memories were fresh. Given additional evidentiary
circumstances, any indefiniteness and uncertainty in the
identification testimony goes to its weight.'

Commonwealth v. Valentine, 101 A.3d &01, 806 (Pa.Super. 2014) quoting Commonwealth v.
Bruce, 717 A.2d 1033, 1037 (Pa.Super. 1998) and Commonwealth v. Orr, 38 A.3d 868, 874
(Pa.Super. 2011). See also Commonwealth v. Ovalles, 144 A.3d 957, 970 (Pa.Super. 2016)
quoting Commonwealth v. Orr supra 38 A.3d at 874.

The Superior Court in Valentine found the identification of the defendant to be sufficient

as a matter of law based on the victim's observation of the minimally, unconcealed portion of his

face, a consistent description of clothing, body type and ethnicity, the prior interactions between

the robber and the victim, as well as the victim's positive identification of the defendant at trial

and the preliminary hearing. Commonwealth v. Valentine supra 101 A.3d at 806.

8
Jun Ub £'.U'I ( U'I :4�1-'M HI-' 1-axJudge Kelly b'I u��'l '.:J4�i page to

The appellate courts have also held an identification to be legally sufficient where

" ... the complainant testified positively and without qualification that Appellant perpetrated the

offenses." Commonwealth v. Patterson, 940 A.2d 493, 502 (Pa.Super, 2007) citing

Commonwealth v. Wilder, 259 Pa.Super. 479, 483, 393 A.2d 927. 928 (1978)(Stating a positive

identification by one witness is sufficient for conviction.). See also Commonwealth v. Simmons,

647 A.2d 56&, 571 (Pa.Super. 1994).

Recognizing witness credibility and the weight of witness identifications of the criminal

assailant are the fact finder's exc1usive prerogative " ' ... a weak identification, together with

other trial evidence relevant to the perpetrator's identity may very we11 be sufficient to convince

a jury of the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.' " Commonwealth v. Nelson, 337

Pa Super. 292, 300, 486 A.2d 1340, 1344 (1984), overruled on other grounds, Commonwealth v.

Clark, 746 A.2d 1128 (Pa.Super. 2000) quoting Commonwealth v. Kloiber, 378 Pa 412, 425,

106 A.2d 820, 827. See also Commonwealth v. Baker, 531 Pa. 541, 553-54, 614 A.2d 663, 669

(1993).

"[Ajny uncertainty in an eyewitness's identification of a defendant is a question of the

weight of the evidence, not its sufficiency." Commonwealth v. Cain, 906 A.2d 1242, 1245

(Pa.Super. 2006) citing Commonwealth v. Minnis, 312 Pa.Super. 53, 57, 458 A.2d 231, 233

(1983). Relatedly, a trial court properly permitted the jury to consider the witness' identification

of the defendant and make its own judgment as to the weight, if any, it was to be afforded,

although the witness was not able to positively identify the defendant, but merely testified that he

resembled the shooter. Commonwealth v. Floyd, 494 Pa. 537, 544, 431 A.2d 984, 988 (1981).

See also Commonwealth v. Patterson supra 940 A.2d at 502 citing Commonwealth v. Galloway,

495 Pa. 535, 539, 434 A.2d 1220, 1222 (198l)(Variances in testimony concern the credibility of

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witnesses and not sufficiency of evidence) and Commonwealth v. Halye, 719 A.2d 763, 764

(Pa.Super. 1998)(en bane), appeal denied, 560 Pa. 699, 743 A.2d 916 (2999), cert. denied sub

nom, Pennsylvania v. Ha/ye, 529 U.S. 1012, 120 S.Ct. 1287, 146 L.Ed.2d. 233 (2000); and

Commonwealth v. Trinidad, 96 A.3d 1031, 1038 (Pa.Super. 2014).

Salient to current considerations, the facts summarized below were credibly established at

Defendant Dickerson's trial.

On June 18, 2015, Javon Abraham was employed and then working as a cashier at a

Sunoco gas station located in Sharon Hill, Delaware County.23 N.T. 7/11116, p. 25. Mr.

Abraham testified that he had been past trained on the protocol to follow in the event the station

was robbed. More specifically, he related this instruction consisted of the following: Reporting

the robbery; Complying with the robber(s)' demands; Noting the offender(s)' identity, including

physicaJ features and clothing, as well as the direction the perpetrator(s) fled. N.T. 7/11116, pp.

25-27.

Approximately 6:15 P.M .• that day (June 18, 2015), two (2) African-American males

entered the store, one (1) with a lighter skin tone while the other had a darker complexion. N.T.

7/11/16, pp. 29-30. At trial, Mr. Abraham described their age range as about nineteen (19) to

twenty (20) years old. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 46. The clerk further recounted that the two (2) men

were of medium build and approximately five feet eight inches (5' 8") tall.24 N.T. 7/11/16, pp.

30, 31. The two (2) assailants were attired in hooded sweatshirts with the hoods pu11ed over their

heads. N.T. 7/11/16, p, 32. The lower or "shirt" parts of the perpetrators' sweatshirts were

drawn upwards covering the lips and extending to beneath their noses. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 32-33.

Although portions of the assailants' faces were concealed, the victim could clearly observe the

IO
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two (2) men from just above the mouths, through the noses, as well as up to and including right

over their eyes. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 33-34.

Mr. Abraham was positioned at the station's cash register when the two (2) robbers

entered the store and immediately confronted him. N.T. 7/11116, pp. 31-32. The light skinned

male proceeded directly around to the employee side of the counter and the dark skinned man

remained on the customer side. 25 N. T. 7 /11/16, p. 36. The lighter skinned assailant came toward

him with a firearm in hand and was standing only one (1) foot away when he pointed the

handgun several inches from Mr. Abraham's face. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 31-32, 34, 35. As the

firearm was menacingly just mere inches from his face, Mr. Abraham heard the other offender

threaten him two (2) or three (3) times to " 'hand over the money,' or else ... he will shoot."

N.T. 7111116, pp. 32, 38, 41.

Mr. Abraham testified that during this incident he realized that be knew the light skinned

robber to be a frequent patron of the gas station. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 38-39, 50. This recognition

prompted him to exclaim, "[W]hy are you doing this? ... 1 know you." The handgun wielding

male did not respond to this statement. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 39. At trial, Mr. Abraham, without

equivocation, identified Defendant Dickerson as the armed, lighter skin toned robber.26 N.T.

7/1 J/16, pp. 39-40.

Just after the Defendant brandished the firearm about his face and the other robber uttered

the threat of his being shot, Mr. Abraham opened the cash register which contained

approximately one hundred dollars ($100.00) of United States currency in marked bills.27 N .T.

7111/16, pp. 32, 37, 38, 41. The victim removed this money and handed it to the dark

complected male, who placed the cash in a bag and the two (2) men then fled. N.T. 7/11/16, p.

38. Mr. Abraham immediately activated the store's security alarm. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 41.

11
Jun uo cu I r u 1 ::::>ut-'1•1 Ht' i-axJuage t\euy o I uo� 1 :::,40.:::
page J ,j

Sunoco's security department called the station and advised they would contact law enforcement

and responding police arrived five (5) minutes later. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 41·43.

A few days after the robbery, on June 22, 2015, Mr. Abraham was again working at the

Sunoco station when he saw a woman he thought to be Defendant Dickerson's mother outside

the store purchasing gas. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 48, 49. Prior to the robbery, the Defendant and this

woman Mr. Abraham believed to be his mother would on various occasions visit the gas station

in a blue, Chevrolet SUV. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 48, 50. It was this motor vehicle (blue, Chevrolet

SUV) the victim once more saw this same woman operating on that date (June 22, 2016), less

than a week following the robbery. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 48-49, 50. The victim noted the

Chevrolet's license plate and provided this information to the investigating police. N.T. 7/l l/16,

p. 49.

Mr. Abraham relatedly explained that Defendant Dickerson had patronized the store

about a dozen times previous to the robbery (June 18, 2015) and he had observed during the

course of approximately half those instances the Defendant in this same blue, Chevrolet SUV.

N.T. 7/11/l 6, pp. 71, 76.

Mr. Abraham also described there were numerous times when Defendant Dickerson

visited the station and the two (2) would often exchange pleasantries. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 71. Mr.

Abraham and the Defendant had discussions about Defendant Dickerson's tattoos and the

Defendant even provided the victim his phone number; however, Mr. Abraham did not save the

same in his cellular phone. N.T. 7 /11/16, pp. 71- 72.

Mr. Abraham at trial also recounted his visit to the Sharon Hill Police Department on July

7, 2015. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 59. The victim described how he then viewed a photo array and was

requested to circle or initial any individual, if he recognized that person as one ( 1} of the males

12
Jun Ub tu·1 r u·1 :::iu1-'1v1 HI-' t-axJuage Kelly b'I Ul:S�fl ::>41:S.::'.
·14
page

who committed the robbery. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 59-61. Mr. Abraham testified that when shown

this photo array he readily identified one (1) of the robbers. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 61.

The prosecutor next presented the victim with the photo array from July 7, 2015. N.T.

7/11/16, pp. 61-62. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 -Photo Array. This pictorial display

contained eight (8) photographs of similarly appearing African-American males. N.T. 7/11/16,

p. 62. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 - Photo Array. Mr. Abraham explained that he

recognized photograph number six (6) as one (1) of the robbers and further at trial identified this

individual as Defendant Dickerson. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 62-63. See also Commonwealth Exhibit

C-3 - Photo Array. The victim testified that he circled and signed the Defendant's photograph

(No. 6) in the array per that which the police instructed. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 63-64. See also

Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 -Photo Array.

Chief Richard Herron, Jr., Sharon HilJ Police Department. also testified as a

Commonwealth witness at the trial Chief Herron was then the detective responsible for

investigating the June 18, 2015, Sunoco gas station robbery. N.T. 7/13/16, pp. 113-14.

Chief Herron was contacted a few days after the robbery and advised that the perpetrator

of the robbery had come back to the store and was a passenger in a blue, Chevrolet SUV.

N.T. 7/13/16, p. 115. Chief Herron was also provided the license plate number belonging to

this blue, Chevrolet SUV, Pennsylvania HVN7672. N.T. 7/13/16, pp. 115, 116-17. See also

Commonwealth Exhibit C-7 - Chief Herron's Report. Using this information, Chief Herron

determined the vehicle was registered to a Robin Downing with an address of 1012 Pine Street,

Darby, PA. N.T. 7/13/16, p. 118. A further search revealed the Defendant as well lived at this

residence. N.T. 7/13/16, p. 118.

13
Jun Ub ,:'.U'I r u·1 ::rn. . 1v1 HI-' t-axJudge Kelly b·1 Ul:S\fl '.)41:Si:::'.
page ·1'.)

Per his testimonial appearance. Chief Herron also detailed that he created a photo array

containing Defendant Dickerson's picture and presented the same on July 7, 2015, to Mr.

Abraham. N.T. 7/13/16, p. 119. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 - Photo Array. Chief

Herron testified he told Mr. Abraham" ... to take his time, to look at each picture thoroughly. If

there was anyone in there that he recognized as a possible actor from the night of the robbery, he

was instructed to circle the picture, sign his name, the date and the time on the photograph."

N.T. 7/13/16, pp. 120-21, 122. The chief explained after" ... approximately 10-15 seconds and,

without hesitation, [Mr. Abraham] immediately pointed to number six and stated that was one of

the males that had robbed him that night." N.T. 7/13/16, p. 121. Chief Herron at trial identified

Defendant Dickerson as the individual in the array's position six (6). N.T. 7/13/16, pp. 121-22.

Foremost, the Defendant by these error assignments maintains on appeal that the trial

evidence was as a matter of law insufficient to establish bis identification as the gun wielding

robber and his convictions at bar thus cannot be legally sustained. See Statement of Matters

Complained, No. 2(b)(c)(d). Based on the above-recounted, salient facts established at trial, as

well as accepting the evidence in the light most beneficial to the prosecution and those reasoned

inferences flowing from such, Defendant Dickerson's identification driven arguments and

sufficiency challenges otherwise are meritless. Commonwealth v. Patterson supra 940 A.2d at

500 and Commonwealth v. Rosario supra 438 Pa.Super. at 260-61, 652 A.2d at 364 citing

Commonwealth v. Calderini supra 416 Pa.Super. at 260�61, 611 A.2d at 207 citing

Commonwealth v. Jackson supra 506 Pa at 472-73, 485 A.2d at 1103.

The prosecution need not as a matter of Jaw have demonstrated the identification of the

Defendant were" ... positive and certain." See Commonwealth v. Valentine supra 101 A.3d at

806 quoting Commonwealth v. Bruce supra 717 A.2d at 1037 and Commonwealth v. Orr supra

14
Jun Ub i::'.U1 f U1 ::iWM HfJ 1-axJudge Kelly b1 u��1 :i4�i::'. page 1b

38 A.3d at 874. See also Commonwealth v. Ovalles supra 144 A.3d at 970 quoting

Commonwealth v. Orr supra 38 AJd at 874. Moreover, an identification by just one (1) witness

can be legally sufficient to sustain a defendant's conviction. Commonwealth v. Patterson supra

940 A.2d at 502 citing Commonwealth v. Wilder supra 259 Pa.Super. at 483, 393 A.2d at 928.

See also Commonwealth v. Simmons supra 64 7 A.2d at 571.

On reviewing the totality of the circumstances seen most favorable to the

Commonwealth, it was proven as a matter of law that Defendant Dickerson was the firearm

brandishing assailant, who on June 18, 2015, robbed at gun point, Mr. Abraham, the store's

clerk. Commonwealth v. Valentine supra 101 A.3d at 806 quoting Commonwealth v. Bruce

supra 717 A.2d at 1037 and Commonwealth v. Orr supra 38 A.3d at 874; and Commonwealth v,

Ovalles supra 144 A.3d at 970 quoting Commonwealth v, Orr supra 38 A.3d at 874. See also

Commonwealth v. Patterson supra 940 A.2d at 500 and Commonwealth v, Rosario supra 438

Pa.Super. at 260-61, 652 A.2d at 364 citing Commonwealth v. Calderini supra 416 Pa.Super. at

260-61, 611 A.2d at 207 citing Commonwealth v. Jackson supra 506 Pa. at 472-73, 485 A.2d at

1103.

Mr. Abraham in his training as a Sunoco employee was instructed to pay careful attention

to detail when victimized during a robbery. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 25-27. At trial, Mr. Abraham

recounted the age, complexion, height and clothing of the two (2) assailants. N.T. 7/11/16, pp.

29-30, 31, 46. While the two (2) men had their visages partially covered, he was able to clearly

see the area about their facial features from just above the mouths through and including the

eyes, particularly Defendant Dickerson, as he stood literally within one (1) foot of him. N.T.

7/11/16, pp. 31-32, 33-34, 35. This immediate, physical proximity of the Defendant permitted

15
 page ·1 r

Mr. Abraham to recognize Defendant Dickerson, a frequent patron of the gas station and with

whom he had on numerous occasions directly interacted. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 38-39, 50, 71-72.

Moreover, only a few days following the robbery, Mr. Abraham saw a motor vehicle at

the gas station that he thought was being operated by the Defendant's mother. N.T. 7/11/16, pp.

48, 50. This belief of the victim was firmly grounded on his previous and various observations

of Defendant Dickerson in the company of this same woman, along with his numerous, past and

direct interactions with the Defendant while working which went well beyond a store clerk

merely attending to a customer, including many personal conversations and Defendant Dickerson

providing Mr. Abraham with his telephone number. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 48-49, 50, 71-72. The

nature, frequency, and timing relative to the crime of these prior contacts between the two (2)

men were such that during the robbery the victim recognized the Defendant asking of him,

"[W]hy are you doing this? ... I know you." N.T. 7111/16, p. 39.

Mr. Abraham noted the blue, Chevrolet SUV's license plate and forwarded this

information to the investigating authorities. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 49. Chief Herron then determined,

inter alia, that the Defendant resided at the same home to which this vehicle was registered.

N.T. 7/13/16, pp. 115-17. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-7 - Chief Herron's Report. Chief

Herron also referenced via his criminal complaint the Defendant is five feet nine inches (5'9")

tall which comports with the Mr. Abraham's description of the gun brandishing robber's height.

N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 30, 31. N.T. 7/13/16, p. 123. Similarly, the criminal complaint lists the

Defendant's date of birth as December 30, 1996, making him nineteen and one half (19.5) years

of age at the time of the robbery consistent with the victim's description of the armed assailant as

being approximately nineteen (19) or twenty (20) years old. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 46. See also

Crimina1 Complaint.

16
Jun 06 LU1 f U1 :�LPM HP 1-axJudge Kelly 610891 �48L page 18

Mr. Abraham's in-court identifying of Defendant Dickerson at trial as the firearm

wielding, light skinned robber was absent any hesitancy and/or qualifications. N.T. 7/11/16, pp.

39-30. The certainty of Mr. Abraham's trial identification that the Defendant was the robber

who went around the store's counter and brandished about his face a handgun was highlighted by

the below cross-examination exchange:

Ms. Gaertner:

So based on that you thought he was someone who
had been in the store before, is that correct?

Mr. Abraham:

I didn't thought [sic]. I knew.

N.T. 7/11116, p. 70. See also N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 31-35.

Likewise, only a few moments later his identification was once more challenged by

defense counsel as follows: "So, one further time, based on seeing nose and eyes and with a gun

pointed in your face, you're still -you're still sure you know who it was that day?" to which the

victim replied, "Yes." N.T. 7/11/16, p. 92.

In further support of his identifying the Defendant, the victim shortly after the robbery

per his own testimony, as well as that of Chief Herron, identified Defendant Dickerson via the

photo array as one (1) of the offenders," ... without hesitation .... " N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 62-64.

N.T. 7113/16, pp. 119-21, 122. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 =Photo Array.

Given the foregoing evidence at trial, when viewed in the light most favorable to the

Commonwealth, together with the rational inferences such reasonably allows, the identification

of Defendant Dickerson being the armed robber is legally sound. Although the Defendant's face

throughout the robbery was partially obscured, Mr. Abraham's opportunity otherwise to observe

him was that of being in his immediate physical proximity with the trial evidence suggesting the

17
Jun 06 LU1 f U1 :�LPM HP 1-axJudge Kelly 610891 �48L page 19

store's interior lighting allowed for such expected observations of Defendant Dickerson only

being approximately a foot away from him. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 31-39. Per his past training

regarding what to do in the event of being victimized, Mr. Abraham was attentively watchful

through the course of the robbery, including as to those circumstances material to the

Defendant's identification. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 25-27, 31-40. His description of the armed

robber's height and age was consistent with those characteristics of Defendant Dickerson. N.T.

7/11/16, pp. 31-40. N.T. 7/13/16, p. 123. See also Criminal Complaint and Probable Cause

Affidavit. Without hesitation, Mr. Abraham shortly after the robbery via a photo array readily

identified the Defendant. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 59-64. N.T. 7/13/16, pp. 119-22. See also

Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 - Photo Array. Mr. Abraham's in-court identification of Defendant

Dickerson as the light skinned, firearm brandishing robber was certain and without any

reservations. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 39-40, 70, 92. Unlike most other convenience store robberies

where the perpetrator is a stranger previously unknown to the clerk-victim, his prior contacts

with the Defendant were of such a nature and frequency that Mr. Abraham during the robbery

then told Defendant Dickerson, ''I know you." N.T. 7/11/161 p. 39. See also N.T. 7/11/13, pp.

48-50, 71-72, 76. The totality of this evidence combines to demonstrate the legal sufficiency of

the Defendant's identification as the handgun wielding robber. Commonwealth v. Valentine

supra 101 A.3d at 806 quoting Commonwealth v. Bruce supra 717 A.2d at 1037 and

Commonwealth v. Orr supra 38 A.3d at 874.

The trial record having established as a matter of law Defendant Dickerson was the

armed assailant, his convictions are otherwise supported by legally sufficient evidence.28

This court acting as the non-jury fact-finder was "free to resolve any doubts regarding

[the] [D]efendant's guilt." Commonwealth v. Hansley supra 24 A.3d at 416 quoting

18
JUll uo l'.UII u1;:J,jt'f•1 Ht' t"clXJUU!:JE= l'\elly OIUO�l:J'+Ol'.

Commonwealth v. Jones supra 874 A.2d at 120-21 quoting Commonwealth v, Bu/lick supra 830

A.2d at 1000 quoting Commonwealth v. Gooding supra 81 & A.2d at 549. Similarly, the court as

the " ... sole judge[] of the credibility and weight of all testimony" was "free to believe all, part

or none of the evidence." Pa. SSJI (Crim) 2.04. See also Commonwealth v. Patterson supra 940

A.2d at 500 quoting Commonwealth v. Emler supra 903 A.2d at 1276-77. The Defendant's

present error assignments challenging the sufficiency of the evidence relating to his robbery,29

criminal conspiracy to commit robbery.i? and possessing instruments of crime convictions are

meritless.31 See Statement of Matters Complained, No. 2(b)(c)(d).

As " ... the [trial] record contains support for the convictions," the guilty verdicts must

remain as this court concluded. Commonwealth v. Davis supra 861 A.2d at 323-24 citing

Commonwealth v. Marks supra 704 A.2d at 1098 citing Commonwealth v. Mudrick supra 510

Pa. at 308, 507 A.2d at 1213.

B. Weight ofthe Evidence

The Defendant by his final appellate complaint seemingly avers as to all three (3) of his

convictions (robbery,32 criminal conspiracy to commit robbery,33 and possessing instruments of

crimer'" that the "verdict was against the weight of the evidence." See Statement of Matters

Complained, No. 2(a). In support of this error assignment, Defendant Dickerson challenges the

victim's identification as "[t]he only evidence presented to place the Appe11ant at the scene of the

crime was the identification of the eye witness, who testified that he only saw the assailant's eyes

and nose." See Statement of Matters Complained, No. 2(a). An examination of the trial record

under the controlling standard of review shows this appellate complaint to as well be without

merit.

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Jun 06 2017 01:53PM HP FaxJudge Kelly 6108915482 page 21

For a weight of the evidence attack to be properly raised on appeal, such a claim

" ... must [have been] preserved either in a post-sentence motion, by a written motion before

sentencing, or orally prior to sentencing." Commonwealth v. Lofton, 57 A.3d 1270, 1273

(Pa.Super. 2012) citing Pa.R.Crim.P. 607 and Commonwealth v. Priest, 18 A.3d 1235, 1239

(Pa.Super. 2011). "Failure to challenge the weight of the evidence presented at trial in an oral or

written motion prior to sentencing or in a post-sentence motion will result in waiver of the

claim." Commonwealth v, Bryant, 57 A.3d 191, 196 (Pa.Super. 2012) citing Commonwealth v.

Bond, 604 Pa. 1, 16-17, 985 A.2d 810, 820 (2009).

Defendant Dickerson through counsel having advanced such a claim via his timely

lodged post-sentence motions, this weight of the evidence challenge for the pending appellate

review has rightly been preserved. See Post-Sentencing Motions dated November 4, 2016. N.T.

11/23/16. See also Commonwealth v. Lofton supra 57 A.3d at 1273 citing Pa.R.Crim.P. 607 and

Commonwealth v. Priest supra 18 A.3d at 1239.

A challenge to the weight of the evidence" ' ... concedes that there is sufficient evidence

to sustain the verdict.' " Commonwealth v. Dupre, 866 A.2d 1089, 1101 (Pa.Super. 2005)

quoting Commonwealth v. Sullivan, 820 A.2d 795, 805-06 (Pa.Super. 2003), appeal denied, 574

Pa. 773, 833 A.2d 143 (2003). Furthermore," ' ... the trial court is under no obligation to view

the evidence in the light most favorable to the verdict winner.' " Id. 866 A.2d at 1101-02

(Emphasis omitted) quoting Commonwealth v, Sullivan supra 820 A.2d at 805-06. Deference is

yet afforded to the guilty verdicts recognizing in its exc1usive fact-finding function that the court

sitting non-jury was " ... to adjudge the credibility of witnesses and to determine whether their

testimony, if believed, establishes the elements of the offenses charged." Commonwealth v.

Stays, 70 A.3d 1256, 1267 (Pa.Super. 2013).

20
Jun Ub LU'I r U'I :'.J4t-'M Ht-' -axjuoqe Kelly b'l u��fl '.J4�L page LL

A weight of the evidence claim is initially committed to the trial court's discretion subject

to appellate review of whether such discretion was manifestly abused per that further detailed

below:

A claim alleging the verdict was against the weight of the evidence
is addressed to the discretion of the trial court. Accordingly, an
appellate court reviews the exercise of the trial court's discretion; it
does not answer for itself whether the verdict was against the
weight of the evidence. It is well settled that the [jury) is free to
believe all, part, or none of the evidence and to determine the
credibility of the witnesses, and a new trial based on a weight of
the evidence claim is only warranted where the [jury's] verdict is
so contrary to the evidence that it shocks one's sense of justice. In
determining whether this standard has been met, appellate review
is limited to whether the trial judge's discretion was properly
exercised, and relief will only be granted where the facts and
inferences of record disclose a palpable abuse of discretion.

Commonwealth v. Brown, 71 A.3d 1009, 1013 (Pa.Super. 2013). See also Commonwealth v.
Karns, 50 A.3d 158, 165 (Pa.Super. 2012); Commonwealth v. Davidson, 860 A.2d 575, 581
(Pa.Super. 2004) quoting Davis v. Mullen, 565 Pa. 386, 390, 773 A.2d 764, 766 (2001) citing
Catalano v. Bujak, 537 Pa. 155, 161, 642 A.2d 448, 450 (1994); Commonwealth v. Dupre supra
866 A.2d at 1101-02; Commonwealth v. Sullivan supra 820 A.2d at 805-06; Commonwealth v.
Kim, 888 A.2d 847, 851 (Pa.Super. 2005) quoting Commonwealth v. Champney, 574 Pa. 435,
444, 832 A.2d 403, 408 (2003); and Commonwealth v. Widmer, 560 Pa. 308, 321, 744 A.2d 745,
753 (2000) citing Commonwealth v. Brown, 538 Pa. 410, 436, 648 A.2d 1177, 1189 ( 1994).

A trial court judge's decision regarding a weight of the evidence challenge is given

measured deference "[bjecause the trial judge has had the opportunity to hear and see the

evidence presented, an appellate court will give the gravest consideration to the findings and

reasons advanced by the trial judge when reviewing a trial court's determination that the verdict

is against the weight of the evidence." Commonwealth v. Widmer supra 560 Pa. at 321, 744

A.2d at 753 citing Commonwealth v. Farquharson, 467 Pa. 50, 60, 354 A.2d 545, 550 (1976).

An appe1late court will not substitute its decision for that reached by the trial court, " '[ijnstead,

this [Superior] Court determines whether the trial court abused its discretion in reaching

whatever decision it made on the motion, whether or not that decision is the one we might have

21
 page £'.,j

made in the first instance.' " Commonwealth v Stays supra 70 A.3d at 1268 quoting

Commonwealth v. West, 937 A.2d 516, 521 (Pa.Super. 2007) citing Commonwealth v. Cousar,

593 Pa. 204, 223, 928 A.2d 1025, 1036 (2007).

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has described this discretion of the trial court and the

abuse finding necessary to relief on appeal related to a weight of the evidence claim as follows:

[The proper use of trial court discretion] ... imports the exercise of
judgment, wisdom and skill so as to reach a dispassionate
conclusion, within the framework of the law, and is not exercised
for the purpose of giving effect to the will of the judge. Discretion
must be exercised on the foundation of reason, as opposed to
prejudice, personal motivations, caprice or arbitrary actions.
Discretion is abused when the course pursued represents not
merely an error of judgment, but where the judgment is manifestly
unreasonable or where the law is not applied or where the record
shows that the action is a result of partiality, prejudice, bias or ill
will.

Commonwealth v. Widmer supra 560 Pa. at 322, 744 A.2d at 753 quoting Coker v. SM
Flickinger Company, Inc., 533 Pa. 441, 447, 625 A.2d 1181, 1184-85 (1993).

Only if it can be found that the trial judge committed an abuse of discretion will a weight

of the evidence error assignment be found successful. Commonwealth v. Brown supra 71 A.3d

at 1013. The abuse of discretion required in such a determination is one "[w]hen 'the figure of

Justice totters on her pedestal,' or when 'the jury's verdict, at the time of its rendition, causes the

trial judge to lose his breath, temporarily, and causes him to almost fall from the bench, then it is

truly shocking to the judicial conscience." Commonwealth v. Davidson supra 860 A.2d at 58 l

quoting Nudelman v. Gilbride, 436 Pa.Super. 44, 51, 647 A.2d 233, 237 (1994) quoting Lupi v.

Keenan, 396 Pa. 6, 15-16, 151 A.2d 447, 452�53 (1959) (Musmanno, J., dissenting).

Viewing this challenge under the abuse of discretion standard and with the required

measured deference, this court did not err in its consideration of the trial evidence and finding

Defendant Dickerson guilty. Commonwealth v. Widmer supra 560 Pa. at 321, 744 A.2d at 753

22
.JUI] uo C.UII u1;::J::Jt"'l'I Mt"' rdX.JUU!:Je r-euy OIUO�l::J'!-OC.

citing Commonwealth v. Farquharson supra 467 Pa. at 60, 3.54 A.2d at 550. See also

Commonwealth v Stays supra 10 A.3d at 1268 quoting Commonwealth v, West supra 937 A.2d at

521 citing Commonwealth v. Cousar supra 593 Pa. at 223, 928 A.2d at 1036.

Having been the factfinder at the Defendant's trial, listened attentively to the entirety of

the evidentiary presentation, and observed the testimonial demeanor of the various prosecution

and defense witnesses,35 as well as heard the respective arguments of counsel, this court

concluded Defendant Dickerson had been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt as to

robbery,36 criminal conspiracy to commit robbery,37 and possessing instruments of crime.38

Most certainly, had its consideration of the trial record left this court with any reasoned doubt as

to his guilt, this court well appreciating the prosecution's fundamental burden of proof would

have acquitted the Defendant.

The trial record is devoid of any evidence of" ' ... partiality, prejudice, bias or i1l will.' "

Commonwealth v. Widmer supra 560 Pa. at 322, 744 A.2d at 753 quoting Coker v. S.M

Flickinger Company, Inc. supra 533 Pa. at 447, 625 A.2d at 1184-85. The instant record

likewise lacks any evidence that the law was overridden or misapplied at any point of the trial.

Id. 560 Pa. at 322, 744 A.2d at 753 quoting Coker v. S.M Flickinger Company. Inc. supra 533

Pa. at 447, 625 A.2d at 1184-85. There is no evidence that the above-captioned matter was tried

on any basis other than fairly and dispassionately by this court.

Based on the applicable law and the above-detailed facts this court found credibly proven

at trial, Defendant Dickerson's appellate complaint that the weight of the evidence did not

support the court's decision to find him guilty of robbery,39 criminal conspiracy to commit

robbery.l" and possessing instruments of crime41 is meritless.

23
 page t::i
Jun oo tu·1 r u·1:::>::>l-'M HI-' t-ax.Juoge t\ellY 0·1u�·:::r1::i�t

Ill. Conclusion

For all the above reasons, Defendant Dickerson's convictions and judgment of sentence

should be affirmed,

'-""":"!

_J\

er.

24
Jun uo .:::u I r u 1 ::J::>t'1·1 Ht' rax.ucqe l'\euy o I uo� 1 ::>40<'.'. page zo

1
18 Pa.C.S. §3701(a){1Xii).
2
18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).
3
18 Pa.C.S. §903.
4
18 Pa.C.S. §3701(a)(1Xii).
s 18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).
6
18 Pa.C.S. §903(3701 (a)(J )(ii)).

7
Just prior to the commencement of the trial's evidentiary presentation, absent objection, the Commonwealth,
of-record, in open court, withdrew all other counts and/subcounts of its past lodged criminal information, except
those decided by the court's verdict. N.T. 7/11/16,p.12. Seea/soVerctictdatedJuly 14,2016,

8
18 Pa.C.S. §370l(a)(1Xii).
9
18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).
10
18 Pa.C.S. §90J(3701(a)(IXii)).
11
The court further memorialized its post-verdict bail modification via an order of that same day (July 14, 2016).
See Order dated July 14, 2016.
12
Although sentencing was originally scheduled to take place on September 13, 2016, the Defendant shortly prior to
this date had retained new counsel, Shaka M. Johnson, Esquire, who was unavailable to attend this listing.
Additionally, the presentence aids as past ordered by this court were not then completed, N.T. 7/14/16, pp. 6-7 and
N.T. 9/13/16, pp. 3-5.
11
18 Pa.C.S. §3701(a)(1)(ii).
14
18 Pa.C.S. §903(370 l(aX l)(ii)).
ii 18 Pa.C.S. §3701(a}(l)(ii).
16
18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).
17
18 Pa.C.S. §903(3701(aXI)(ii)).
18
61 Pa.C.S. §§3901 et seq.
19
61 Pa.C.S. §§4501 et seq.

20
Paragraph number one ( l) of Defendant Dickerson's statement of matters complained does not aver an error
assignment, but simply recognizes that his extension application for the statement's filing was by this court allowed.
See Statement of Matters Complained, No. I. See also Petition for Extension of Time dated January 25, 2017, and
Order dated February 3, 2017.

21
The Defendant's sufficiency of the evidence error assignments are detailed below:

b) The evidence was insufficient as a matter of law to convict the Appellant of
Robbery - Threat lmmed Ser Injury [sic]. The Commonwealth failed to prove
beyond a reasonable doubt that (1) Appellant was the assailant, and (2)
Appellant threatened another with or intentionally put him in fear of immediate
serious bodily injury.

c) The evidence was insufficient as a matter of law to convict the Appellant of
Poss Instrument of Crime W/lnt [sic]. The Commonwealth failed to prove
beyond a reasonable doubt that (I) Appellant possessed a firearm, (2) the
firearm was an instrument of crime, and (3) Appellant possessed the item with
intent to employ it criminally.

d) The evidence was insufficient as a matter of Jaw to convict the Appellant of
Conspiracy to commit robbery Threat of Immed Bodily Injury [sic] with an
unknown individual. The Commonwealth failed to prove beyond a reasonable
doubt that (1) an agreement existed between Appellant and an unidentified
individual, (2) Appellant and the unidentified individual intended to promote or

25
Jun uo £'.U I I U I :::)Ot"'l"I Ht"' -axucqe t\eLLY O I uo� I :)40£'. page ct

facilitate the committing of the crime, and (3) Appellant or the unidentified
individual committed an overt act in furtherance of the conspiracy.

See Statement of Matters Complained, No, 2(b)(c)(d).

22
Accepting the trial evidence legally proved Defendant Dickerson's identification, the prosecution's evidentiary
presentation also unquestionably established that he and a criminal cohort entered a local Sunoco gas station each
with their shirts pulled up to their mouths and the hoods of their sweatshirts pulled down onto their foreheads. N.T.
7(11116, pp. 29-34. The assailants proceeded directly to the store's clerk with the gun toting Defendant walking
around the counter to directly confront the victim-clerk. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 31-32, 36. While Defendant Dickerson
brandished his firearm about the face of the clerk-victim. his co-conspirator verbally threatened the young man at
least twice to" ... hand over the money, or else ... he will shoot." N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 32, 38, 41. Right after the
victim-clerk complied and surrendered the shop's money to the unknown co-assailant, both he and the Defendant
together immediately fled the scene. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 38, 41.

Per that further discussed infra, these facts recounted immediately above with the Defendant's identification
having been proven as a matter of law most certainly demonstrate that all other necessary clements of his
convictions were legally established. See Endnote No. 28, p. 18.
23
Mr. Abraham's testimony began with the concession that he did not want to be testifying in court about the
robbery and his victimization, but was only appearing as a prosecution witness because he was so subpoenaed. N.T.
7/11/16, pp. 23-25.
4
l The victim's height descriptions of the robbers were based on his own knowledge that he is five feet five inches
(5' 5") tall and the perpetrators were a few inches taller than him. N.T. 10/28/16, p. 76. Following Mr. Abraham's
photo array identification, Chief Herron drafted the criminal complaint at bar which listed the Defendant's height as
five feet nine inches (5' 9"). N.T. 7/13/16, p. 123.
25The counter was most modest in size approximating that of a household table and the only physical separation
between the shop's public area and that of the cashier. Mr. Abraham was not ensconced in some protective like
cubicle affording him at least a measure of safety from the robbers. See Commonweahh Exhibit C-2 - Sunoco
Surveillance Footage from June 18, 2015. See also N.T, 7/11/16, p. 36.

26
The victim was presented at trial with the preliminary hearing notes. Per this transcript, Mr. Abraham at the
preliminary hearing first refused to respond to questions about the armed robber's identity and on being advised by
the presiding magisterial district judge that he was required to answer such inquiries testified that the individual at
the preliminary hearing, the Defendant, was not one (1) of the robbers from June 18, 2015. Despite such reluctance
to identify the Defendant at the preliminary hearing, when confronted at the same proceeding with the photo array,
Mr. Abraham acknowledged past executing, dating, circling, and identifying the individual in photograph six (No.
6), as the firearm wielding robber, Defendant Dickerson. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 65-69, 77�91. See also Commonwealth
Exhibit C-4 - Preliminary Hearing Transcript, pp. l 0-14, 16 and Statement of Matters Complained, No. 2(a).

Because such equivocal pre-trial identification testimony is more properly seen to be within the purview of the
Defendant's challenge to the weight of the evidence appellate complaint given the standard controlling legal
sufficiency claims, it is in that context discussed below. Commonwealth ¥. Cain supra 906 A.2d at 1245 citing
Commonwealth v. Minnis supra 312 Pa.Super, at 57, 458 A.2d at 233. See also Commonwealth v. Potterson supra
940 A.2d at 502 citing Commonwealth v. Galloway supra 495 Pa. at 539, 434 A.2d at 1222 and Commonwealth v.
Halye supra 719 A.2d at 764; and Commonwealth v. Trinidad supra 96 A.3d at 1038.
27 At trial, Mr. Abraham explained that connected to the register is a hidden drawer containing over one hundred
dollars ($100.00) of'vmarked" United States currency and Sunoco employees in the event of a robbery are trained to
surrender this "marked" money from this secreted compartment. N.T.7/11/16, pp. 36-37.

28 In light of the above summarized trial evidence, it just cannot be reasonably or otherwise argued that Defendant
Dickerson did not in the course of committing a theft threaten another with or intentionally put the clerk-victim in

26
 page <'.'.�

fear of immediate serious bodily injury. 18 Pa.C.S. §370J(a)(1Xii). See also Commonwealth v. Kubis, 978 A.2d
391, 396 (Pa.Super. 2009) and Commonwealth v. Thomas, 376 Pa.Super, 455, 460, 546 A.2d 116, 119�10 (1988)
citing Commonwealth v. Mays, 248 Pa.Super, 318, 321, 375 A.2d 116, 118 (1977); Commonwealth v. Duffey, 519
Pa. 348, 357-58, 548 A.2d 1178, 1182 (1988) citing Commonwealth v, Brown, 506 Pa. 169, 176, 484 A.2d 738, 741
(1984); Commonwealth v. Matthew, 589 Pa. 487, 494-95, 909 A.2d 1254, 1259 (2006); Commonwealth v. Hall, 574
Pa. 233, 242, 830 A.2d 537, 542 (2003); Commonwealth v. Alford, 880 A.2d 666, 675 (Pa.Super. 2005) citing
Commonwealth v, Hopkins, 747 A.2d 910, 914-15 (Pa.Super. 2000); and Pa. SSJI (Crim) 15.370l(A). See also
Statement of Matters Complained, No. 2(b). Likewise, this evidence most certainly established the handgun was an
instrument of crime and possessed by the Defendant with an intent to employ the firearm criminally. 18 Pa.C.S.
§907(a). See also Commonwealth v, Baskerville, 452 Pa.Super, 82, 93, 681 A.2d 195, 201 (1996) citing
Commonwealth v. Glover, 399 Pa.Super. 610, 616, 582 A.2d 1111, 1114 (1990) citing Commonwealth v. Jackson
supra 506 Pa. at 473, 485 A.2d at 1104; Commonwealth l'. Hennigan, 753 A.2d 245, 253 (Pa.Super. 2000) quoting
Commonwealth v, Johnson, 719 A.2d 778, 784 (Pa.Super. 1998) (en bane), appeal denied. 559 Pa. 689, 739 A.2d
1056 (1999) citing Commonwealth v. Swerdlow, 431 Pa.Super. 453, 458, 636 A.2d 1173, 1176-1177 (1994);
Commonwealth v. Sanchez, 82 A.3d 943, 973 (Pa. 2013) citing Commonwealth v. Weimer, 602 Pa. 33, 39, 977 A.2d
1103, 1106 (2009); Commonwealth v, Murphy, 577 Pa. 275, 292, 844 A.2d 1228, 1238 (2004) citing Commonwealth
v. Wayne, 553 Pa. 614, 630, 720 A.2d 456, 463-64 (1998); Commonwealth v. Ruiz, 819 A.2d 92, 98 (Pa.Super.
2003) quoting Commonwealth v. Lambert, 795 A.2d 1010, 1016-17 (Pa.Super. 2002) quoting Commonwealth v,
Galindes, 786 A.2d 1004, IOI l (Pa.Super, 2001); Commonwealth v. Bachert, 271 Pa.Super. 72, 77, 412 A.2d 580,
583 (1979); and Pa. SSJI (Crim) 12.903(A)(B). See also Statement of Matters Complained, No. 2(c). This trial
evidence similarly proves without question an agreement to commit a robbery between Defendant Dickerson and his
unknown confederate with the intent to facilitate or promote the same, as well as the obvious overt act of the
completed armed robbery's perpetration. 18 Pa.CS. §903(3701(aXIXii)). See also Commonwealth v. Gladden, 445
Pa.Super, 434, 444, 665 A.2d 1201, 1200 (1995) and Pa. SSJI (Crim) 12.907(A). See also Stat.ement of Matters
Complained, No. 2(d). See generally Commonwealth v, Patterson supra 940 A.2d at 500 and Commonwealth v.
Krlegler supra 127 A.3d at 847 quoting Commonwealth v. Harlie supra 1194 A.2d at 903-04 quoting Commonwealth
v. Thomas supra 867 A.2d at 597.
29
18 Pa.C.S. §370l(a)(l)(ii).
30
18 Pa.C.S. §903(3701(aXl)(ii)).
31
18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).
n 18 Pa.C.S. §3701(a)(l)(ii).
31
18 Pa.C.S. §903(370l(aXl)(ii)).
34
18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).

35
Mr. Abraham was questioned at trial by the attorneys about inconsistencies between his preliminary hearing and
trial identification testimony. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 65-69, 77-91. However, these discrepancies were clarified at trial as
discussed immediately below through further inquirjes by both the prosecution and defense counsel.

Relevant to the Defendant's identification, Mr. Abraham at the preliminary hearing continuously offered, "I'm not
comfortable answering that question," and on being pressed by the magisterial district judge to provide an answer he
repeated his "discomfort" and/or claimed he did not then recognize the Defendant. N.T. 7/11116, pp. 66, 68, 69, 77-
78, 80-81, 86, 89. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-4 - Preliminary Hearing Transcript, pp. 8, 11, 21-22, 24, 25,
26.

On further inquiry by the Commonwealth at trial into his past reluctance to then answer these questions before the
magisterial district court, Mr. Abraham provided credible explanations about his "uncomfortableness" in not only
identifying the Defendant, but also appearing at the preliminary hearing and trial as a prosecution witness. N.T.
7/11/16, pp. 66, 83-84. Eventually, Mr. Abraham revealed his past and present concerns with testifying as a witness
for the Commonwealth per the fo1Iowing:

Mr. Abraham:

1 didn't get hurt, and it wasn't my money. Right -- ... -- if it
would've put me in danger, or, like, if I was in danger, or like

27
JUI] uo LUI I UL:.Jlt'l'I Mt' rdl\JUUye r-.eLLY OIU0'.:::11:.J<+OL

- not - if 1 was hurt, I probably would've said something. If
you were to hurt one of my family members, I would've said
something, but since he just did it, I guess, for the money, I'm
guessing. I mean, he got like $120. Sunoco, we make that
money right back up. I wasn't hurt. I was just - I was just
over the situation. And I just didn't want to come here and
just tell, I guess. . ..

Mr. DiRosato;

What you've told the Court here today, is that the truth?

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

Mr. DiRosato:

Who dldyou see rob you hack 01, June JB'h of 2015?

Mr. Abraham:

Him right here. .••

Mr. DiRosato:

... Do you feel obligated to come in here and testify like it
was some-

Mr. Abraham:

Yes, because I - from the beginning, the first testimony or
the - yeah, the first Court date 1 had, I told you I didn't want
to come, and you all made me came {sic].

Mr. DiRosato:

Well, did you te11 me, or did you tell someone else?

Mr. Abraham:

The police officers ...

Mr. DiRosato:

So who did you tell when you got notice to come to the
District Court here, the local Court?

Mr. Abraham:

Everyone that J spoke to, tl,e officers. Everyone. I told them
I did not want to testify because I was not comfortable.

28
Jun Ub l'.01 f U1 :!:l�f-!M Hf-! 1-axJudge Kelly b1 U��1 !:>4�l'. page JU

Mr. DiRosato:

So, again, what was making you so uncomfortable?
Mr. Abraham:

Because I used to work at Sunoco, and how small it is,
anybody can come • - if I was to be like, he did it - J saw him
a couple days after tllat, and anything could've happened.
He could've still came [sic] in the store and did anything. I
just wasn't comfortable.

Mr. DiRosato:

Did you ever see him after the preliminary hearing the
Defendant, after October 281h, come in your store?

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

Mr. DiRosato:

When did you stop working at Sunoco?

Mr. Abraham:

1 can't remember the date exactly. I can't remember the exact
date.

Mr. DiRosato:

Was it after the preliminary hearing, that local District Court
hearing?

Mr. Abraham:
Yes.

Mr. OiRosato:

What about your safety? Did safety ever impact your decision
to testify or not want to testify?

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

Mr. DiRosato:

What about your safety? What were you concerned about? If
he didn't hurt you the first time, why would you've thought
you'd be hurt after?

29
 page s1

Mr. Abraham:

He'd be - just my safety. It was just - if I see him in the
streets, anything could happen, I'm not saying -he is capable
of, like, hurting me, but I'm - I wasn't scared, just anything
could happen.

Mr. DiRosato:

So let's clear up -

Mr. Abraham:

I could get-

Mr. DlRosato:

-· one more thing before I -

Mr. Abraham:

- I could get jumped. Anything could happen.

Mr. DiRosato:

Do you remember te11ing the Court back on October 28th of
2015 that what you meant by not comfortable is, 'I'm working
at Sunoco, and it's open.'

Mr. Abraham:

Um-hum.

Mr. DiRosato:

Is that a yes?
Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

Mr. DiRosato:

Was that going to your safety, the concerns for your safety?

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

Mr. DiRosato:

And then on page 26, line 13, you were asked, 'Sir, you
started to answer the question by saying Sunoco was open.'
Answer at 15, 'Yes.' The question was, 'Explain what you
mean.' Do you remember telling the Court on line 17,

30
 page 3£'.'.

'Anything could happen, like anyone could come in the store
and do anything to me.' And then the question posed to you is,
'Do anything similar to what happened on June 1st"?'
Answer, 'Yes.' Question, 'So that makes you uncomfortable,
that it could happen again, is that what you're telling the
Court?' Your answer was, 'Yes.'

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

Mr. DiRosato:

Wiren you testified at the preliminary kearing, was a concern
for your safety one of tile driving factors about your
answerst

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 85-87, 90-91. (Emphasis added.) See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-4 - Preliminary Hearing
Transcript.

In addition to Mr. Abraham's explanation that it was concerns about his safety which led him to not identify
Defendant Dickerson as the gun toting robber at the preliminary hearing, he acknowledged the Defendant was in
fact present before the magisterial district court, N.T. 7/1 l!I6, p. 66. More specifically, Mr. Abraham testified as
follows:

Mr. DiRosato:

So, the person in that Courtroom [sic] back on October zs"
wasn't a different person. You just didn't want to make the
identification?

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

N.T. 7/11/16, p. 67. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-4 - Preliminary Hearing Transcript, pp. 65-69, 77-91.

This court's accepting in its factfinding function Mr. Abraham's identification of Defendant Dickerson was
grounded on such material circumstances' totality, aJl of which combined to convince it beyond a reasonable doubt
that the Defendant was in fact the firearm wielding robber.

Although Defendant Dickerson's face was partially concealed throughout the robbery, Mr. Abraham was in his
immediate physical proximity at a distance of approximately one (1) foot and otherwise afforded a clear opportunity
to observe the Defendant under the store's interior lighting conditions. N.T. 7/11116, pp. 31-39.

Mr. Abraham had received past training about what he should do if victimized whi1e working at the gas station and
was attentive throughout the robbery per that instruction, including as to those circumstances bearing on Defendant
Dickerson's identification. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 25-27, 31-40.

31
Jun Ub ,::'.U'I r U'I :::itSr'M Hr' -axjucqe Kelly b'l UtS':fl ::J4tS.::'. page 33

His description of the armed robbery's ethnicity, body build, height and age was consistent with those of the
Defendant. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. Jl-40. N.T. 7/13/16, p. 123. See also Criminal Complaint and Probable Cause
Affidavit.

Shortly after the robbery (July 7, 2015), Mr. Abraham, without hesitation, when shown a photo array by Chief
Herron readily identified Defendant Dickerson as the armed robber. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 59-61, 63-64. N.T. 7/13/16,
pp. 1 I 9-22. Mr. Abraham at trial readily confirmed his past pictorial identification of the Defendant and further
identified the photograph he selected (No. 6) as being that of Defendant Dickerson. N.T. 7/11116, pp. 61-63. See
also Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 - Photo Array,

While at the preliminary hearing, Mr. Abraham for those reasons detailed above refused to make an in-court
identification of the Defendant, he then did when confronted with the photo array acknowledge having signed,
dated, and circled picture number six (6), identifying the Defendant as the handgun brandishing robber. N.T. 7111/6,
pp. 65-69, 77-91. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-4 - Preliminary Hearing Transcript, pp. 10-14, 16 and
Commonwealth Exhibit C-3 - Photo Array. Moreover, there is no evidence at bar that Mr. Abraham ever identified
anyone as this armed robber other than Defendant Dickerson.

This court at trial having keenly observed his testimonial demeanor found credible Mr. Abraham's explanations
about his fear of cooperating with the prosecution causing him to refuse during the preliminary hearing to identify
the Defendant. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 85-87, 90-91. His testimony at trial about a fearful reluct.ance to appear as a
Commonwealth witness was likewise consistent with and further corroborated by that which he offered before the
magisterial district judge. See Commonwealth Exhibit C-4 - Preliminary Hearing Transcript, pp. 8, 11, 21�22, 24,
25,26.

Unique to the matter at bar, the robbery victim, Mr. Abraham, and Defendant Dickerson were not strangers. Prior
to the robbery (June 18, 2015), the Defendant had been a customer of the store on a recurrent basis. The frequency
of his patronizing the station was such that the Defendant and Mr. Abraham had struck up an acquaintanceship
which included many personal discussions, and Defendant Dickerson had even given to Mr. Abraham his telephone
number. N.T. 7/l l/16, pp. 48-50, 71-72, 76. The regularity with which the Defendant had been to the store was ofa
nature that Mr. Abraham came to know that he was often in the company of his mother, a woman driving a blue,
Chevrolet SlN. N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 71, 76. When he again observed this woman operating the same automobile just
a few days after the robbery, on Mr. Abraham forwarding to the police the Pennsylvania license plate of her motor
vehicle (HVN1672), Chief Herron determined the SUV was registered at Defendant Dickerson's address. N.T.
7/11/6, pp. 48-50. N.T. 7/13/16, pp. 115-J 8. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-7 -Chief Herron's Report.

Mr. Abraham's previous familiarity with the Defendant manifested itself at trial as the reasoned foundation on
which his identification firmly rested. From the nature, frequency, and timing relative to the robbery of these prior
Interactions, Mr. Abraham realized in the course of the robbery Defendant Dickerson's identify even then telling
him, "l know you." N.T. 7/1 Jl16, p. 39. See also N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 48-50, 71-72, 76. Per that below, despite being
ably and understandably confronted during cross-examination about his refusal to make an in-court preliminary
hearing identification and the partial concealment of the armed robber's facial features, Mr. Abraham was yet as
resolute in his identification of the Defendant being the firearm brandishing assailant as he was when he
unequivocally and with certainty made the same identification during the prosecution's questioning:

Mr. Gaertner:

So based on that you thought he was someone who had been
in the store before, is that correct?

Mr. Abraham:

I didn't thought [sic]. I knew ....

32
Jun uo .:::u1 r u1::::J�t"'l"I Ht"' -ax.nroqe r-euy 01uo�1:::,40,::: page .j4

Mr. Gaertner:

So one further time, based on seeing the nose and eyes and
with a gun pointed in your face, you're still - you're still sure
you know who it was that day?

Mr. Abraham:

Yes.

N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 70, 92. See also N.T. 7111/16, pp. 32-34, 39-40, 65-69, 71, 77�91.

The security camera footage from the gas station was at trial played for the court. N.T. 7111/16, pp. 53-59.
Regarding the surveillance system's video footage, the attorneys stipulated to the security cameras' functionabillty
and a proper custodial chain. N.T. 7/11/16, p. 52. See also Commonwealth Exhibit C-2 - Sunoco Surveillance
Footage from June 18, 2015.

This camera system provided surveillance about the gas station's interior and exterior from eight (8) different
vantage points. Two (2) camera positions showed the store's interior, two (2) others depicted just outside the shop's
door from opposite directions, one (1) focused on the parking lot, and the remaining three (3) camera locations
revealed nothing material. See Commonwealth Exhibit C-2 - Sunoco Surveillance Footage from June 18, 2015.
See also N.T. 7/11/16, pp. 53-59.

Although the salient camera locations depicted the robbers entering the store, accosting Mr. Abraham, leaving the
shop, and then fleeing together through the gas station's parking lot, the cameras' angles, distances, focal points,
positionings, ranges of that shown, and overall picture clarity rendered this surveillance footage, individual and/or
collectively, anything but dispositive as to the identification issue. At best, that depicted through the surveillance
system allowed for the corroboration of Mr. Abraham's narrative about the robbery's event sequence and his
description of the assailants' physical characteristics generally, but provided of either robber no depictions of any
meaningful comparative, identification benefit. Standing alone, the surveillance video footage thus offered this
court as the trial's finder of fact very little, if anything, establishing Defendant Dickerson was or was not in fact the
aJTI1ed robber. See Commonwealth Exhibit C-2 - Sunoco Surveillance Footage from June 18, 2015. See also N.T
7/11/16, pp. 53-59.

This court's acceptance of Mr. Abraham's unqualified identification that Defendant Dickerson was the firearm
brandishing robber in light of these combined, salient circumstances recounted above was a reasoned exercise of its
factfinding prerogative. Commonwealth v. Stays supra 70 A.3d at 1267. Relatedly, the court's denial of the
Defendant's post-sentence weight of the evidence challenge driven by the contention Mr. Abraham's identification
was so legally lacking should not be seen on the instant record to be a manifest abuse of its discretion.
Commonwealth v. Brown supra 71 A.3d at l O 13.
36
18 Pa.C.S. §3701(a)(1Xii).
37
18 Pa.C.S. §903(370 I (a)(l)(ii)).
38
18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).
39
18 Pa.C.S. §370l(a)(l)(ii).
40
18 Pa.C.S. §903(370l(a)(l)(ii)).
41
18 Pa.C.S. §907(a).

33