In The

Court of Appeals

Sixth Appellate District of Texas at Texarkana

______________________________

No. 06-09-00233-CR

______________________________

RICKY GILMORE, SR., Appellant

V.

THE STATE OF TEXAS, Appellee

 

On Appeal from the 349th Judicial District Court

Houston County, Texas

Trial Court No. 09CR-076

 

Before Morriss, C.J., Carter and Moseley, JJ.

Opinion by Chief Justice Morriss
2

O P I N I O N

The January 2009 anonymous tip that ultimately led to the conviction of Ricky Gilmore, 

Sr., in a Houston County1jury trial for possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, 

came in a telephone call to Houston County Deputy H. D. Gresham. Without divulging how he or 

she had come by the information, the tipster told Gresham that Gilmore had just left Trinity 

County traveling to Houston County in a white Dodge truck and was concealing drugs ―in his ass.‖ 

Gresham asked Deputy Clayton Smith to accompany him in his attempt to locate Gilmore. The 

deputies were aware that Gilmore had outstanding child support warrants. 

While traveling down State Highway 19 toward Trinity County, Gresham and Smith 

observed Gilmore, with whom they were acquainted, pass them traveling in the opposite direction 

in a vehicle matching the description given by the tipster. The deputies stopped Gilmore and 

arrested him on the child support warrants. The deputies conducted a pat down search of Gilmore 

and an inventory search of the vehicle, but found no drugs or drug paraphernalia. They did find 

$364.00 cash in Gilmore‘s possession. 

At the Houston County jail, Smith conducted a visual body-cavity search of Gilmore,

requiring Gilmore to remove all his clothing, lift his scrotum, and spread his butt cheeks. The 

officers discovered, under Gilmore‘s scrotum and partially concealed in Gilmore‘s anus, a bag 

 

1Originally appealed to the Twelfth Court of Appeals, this case was transferred to this Court by the Texas Supreme 

Court pursuant to its docket equalization efforts. See TEX. GOV‘T CODE ANN. § 73.001 (Vernon 2005). We are 

unaware of any conflict between precedent of the Twelfth Court of Appeals and that of this Court on any relevant 

issue. See TEX. R. APP. P. 41.3.
3

containing a substance later identified as containing forty-one grams of cocaine, including 

adulterants. 

The anonymous caller then called Gresham again and stated that Gilmore had been selling 

drugs from his residence. The deputies obtained a search warrant for the residence and there 

discovered glassine bags and two sets of digital scales. 

The jury found Gilmore guilty and assessed punishment at seventy-five years‘

imprisonment. The trial court sentenced Gilmore consistent with the jury‘s assessment. 

Gilmore appeals, raising four issues. We affirm the judgment of the trial court, because we hold 

that (1) the visual body-cavity search of Gilmore‘s person was reasonable, (2) probable cause 

supported the search of Gilmore‘s residence, (3) any error in refusing Gilmore a continuance was 

not preserved, and (4) insufficient causal connection was established to permit impeaching 

Gresham with federal charges.

(1) The Visual Body-Cavity Search of Gilmore’s Person Was Reasonable

Gilmore argues that the trial court erred in denying his motion to suppress evidence seized 

during the visual body-cavity search because the deputies lacked reasonable suspicion to conduct 

the search incident to arrest. The State argues the balancing of the four factors of Bell v. Wolfish, 

441 U.S. 520, 559 (1979), indicates the search was reasonable.

In general, a search incident to arrest authorizes the police to conduct ―a full search of the 

person.‖ United States v. Robinson, 414 U.S. 218, 236 (1973). ―But Robinson did not do away 
4

with the requirement that all searches be reasonable, nor did it hold that all searches incident to 

arrest, no matter how intrusive, are per se reasonable.‖ McGee v. State, 105 S.W.3d 609, 615 

(Tex. Crim. App. 2003). Whether a search is reasonable ―requires a balancing of the need for the 

particular search against the invasion of personal rights that the search entails.‖ Bell, 441 U.S. at

559 (concluding searches in jails and prisons can be conducted with less than probable cause).

We are to consider four factors in determining the reasonableness of the search: (1) the 

scope of the particular intrusion, (2) the manner in which it is conducted, (3) the justification for 

initiating it, and (4) the place in which it is conducted. Id.; see McGee, 105 S.W.3d at 616. Each 

analysis will depend on the particular facts and circumstances of the underlying case, and no one 

factor is determinative. McGee, 105 S.W.3d at 616.

(a) The Scope of the Intrusion Weighs Against Reasonableness

The search of Gilmore‘s person conducted in this case is sometimes called a strip search in 

the briefs of the parties and at trial. But it is properly called a ―visual body-cavity search.‖

The term ―strip search‖ generally refers to an inspection of a naked person, without 

any scrutiny of the person‘s cavities. A ―visual body-cavity search‖ includes a 

visual inspection of a person‘s anal or genital areas. A ―manual body-cavity 

search‖ involves some degree of probing or touching a person‘s body cavities.

Id. at 615. Because the search at issue included a visual inspection of Gilmore‘s anal and genital 

areas, the search was a visual body-cavity search. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals has 

noted ―[v]isual body-cavity searches are among the most intrusive of searches‖ and their 

intrusiveness ―cannot be overstated.‖ Id. at 616 (quoting Kennedy v. Los Angeles Police Dep’t, 
5

901 F.2d 702, 711 (9th Cir. 1989)). Visual body-cavity searches can be demeaning, 

dehumanizing, terrifying, and humiliating. Id. This factor clearly weighs against the 

reasonableness of the search and requires the other factors, on balance, to justify the search.

(b) How the Search Was Conducted Favors Reasonableness

The record indicates the visual body-cavity search was conducted in a professional manner

with no more intrusion than necessary. The deputies escorted Gilmore to a room in the book-in 

area of the Houston County jail, which the deputies referred to as the ―strip-search area.‖ Once 

there, the deputies ordered Gilmore to remove his clothes and then inspected the clothes. The 

deputies then advised Gilmore to ―turn and face [the deputies] and lift his scrotum and turn and 

spread his butt cheeks . . . .‖ When Smith observed ―something being concealed,‖ he asked 

Gilmore to remove the item; Gilmore eventually complied. There are no allegations the deputies 

required Gilmore to remain exposed for unreasonable durations, subjected Gilmore to endure 

degradation or ridicule, or conducted the search based on any abusive or unprofessional 

motivation on the part of the deputies. This factor weighs in favor of reasonableness.

(c) The Justification for the Search Favors Reasonableness

The third factor concerns the justification the deputies had for the search. That involves 

the level of suspicion the deputies had that a search would yield either contraband or a weapon. 

Although a pretrial detainee has a diminished expectation of privacy while at a jail—the location 

of this search—there is some debate about the appropriate level of suspicion for such a search.
6

Gilmore argues that the trial court erred in denying his motion to suppress evidence seized 

during the visual body-cavity search because the deputies lacked reasonable suspicion to conduct 

the search. He explains that Article 38.23 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure requires the 

exclusion of the evidence because (a) the lack of reasonable suspicion violated the United States

Constitution, (b) the lack of reasonable suspicion violated the Houston County jail‘s search 

policy,2and (c) the lack of reasonable suspicion violated the Texas Administrative Code.3

 

2The search policy of the Houston County jail states that an unclothed search is ―[a] search where reasonable suspicion 

exists to justify the search.‖ According to Gilmore, the search should have been suppressed because the deputies

lacked specific, articulable facts that Gilmore possessed a controlled substance. Gilmore‘s argument relies on the 

definition of ―reasonable suspicion‖ that applies to Fourth Amendment purposes, rather than the definition of the term 

in the policy. The policy, though, assigned a different definition to the term ―reasonable suspicion‖ than the 

definition of the term for the purpose of a Fourth Amendment analysis. Section 1.08 of the policy provides 

reasonable suspicion exists if ―the individual‘s criminal history shows previous arrests for drug offense . . . .‖ The 

record reflects that the deputies were aware Gilmore had been previously arrested for drug offenses. 

A departmental policy, however, is merely a guide to assist the employees of the department; it is not a law or 

a regulation. A policy is ―a definite course or method of action selected from among alternatives and in light of given 

conditions to guide and determine present and future actions.‖ MERRIAM WEBSTER‘S COLLEGIATE DICTIONARY 

960 (11th ed. 2003). Although a policy might have relevance in some situations, it has no relevance to the 

admissibility of evidence under Article 38.23. It is a guide to aid the department‘s employees in complying with the 

department‘s preferred course of action. While often used to aid a department in complying with the law, a policy is 

still nothing more than a guide. A policy does not modify or expand the law. A policy is not a law of the State of 

Texas under Article 38.23.

3The Texas Commission on Jail Standards has issued a regulation concerning searches on admittance. Section 265.2 

of Title 37 of the Texas Administrative Code provides as follows in pertinent part:

(a) A thorough pat or frisk search shall be conducted on each inmate upon entry into the 

facility and prior to booking.

(b) When facility personnel reasonably believe it to be necessary, inmates should undergo a 

thorough strip search for weapons and contraband which may pose a threat to the security or safety 

of the facility . . . .

37 TEX. ADMIN. CODE § 265.2 (2010). Gilmore argues, because the deputies lacked reasonable suspicion, they could 

not ―reasonably believe‖ a search was necessary. Thus, according to Gilmore, the search violated the Texas 

Administrative Code and the prohibition contained in Article 38.23 applies to the search.

In general, a valid regulation adopted by an administrative agency in accordance with its delegated powers 

has the force and effect of a legislative enactment. Ne. Tarrant County Water Auth. v. Bd. of Water Eng’r, 367 
7

In Bell, the United States Supreme Court announced, due to the ―significant and legitimate 

security interests‖ of penal institutions, visual body-cavity searches may be conducted based on 

less than probable cause. Bell, 441 U.S. at 560. The Court, though, failed to specify what level 

of suspicion is necessary, if any. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, similarly, has yet to 

specify what level of suspicion, if any, is required for visual body-cavity searches. McGee, 105 

S.W.3d at 617. McGee upheld a visual body-cavity search conducted in a fire station, not a jail, as 

a search incident to arrest but, in deciding the search was reasonable, noted the police had probable 

cause. Id. McGee endorsed the four-part weighing test set out by Bell and explicitly stated that 

no single factor of the test is determinative. Id. at 616. If, as is stated by McGee, a single factor 

cannot be determinative, then no particular level of suspicion, not even reasonable suspicion, can 

be said to be an absolute requirement to validate a search.

Notwithstanding the lack of an absolute standard requiring reasonable suspicion, we 

believe the deputies had reasonable suspicion to search Gilmore. We review the trial court‘s 

decision on a motion to suppress evidence by applying a bifurcated standard of review deferring to 

the trial court‘s determination of historical facts that depend on credibility, but reviewing de novo 

the trial court‘s application of the law. Wiede v. State, 214 S.W.3d 17, 25 (Tex. Crim. App. 

 

S.W.2d 720, 723 (Tex. Civ. App.—Austin 1963, no writ); see 25–421 Dorsaneo, TEXAS LITIGATION GUIDE § 421.02

(2010); B-R Dredging Co. v. Rodriguez, 564 S.W.2d 693, 696 (Tex. 1978). However, the issue of whether the 

general rule applies under the circumstances presented in this case is not clear. Neither Gilmore nor the State have 

briefed whether the Texas Legislature contemplated that Article 38.23 would apply to violations of agency regulations 

or whether ―reasonably believed‖ is consistent with or more expansive than reasonableness under the Fourth 

Amendment. Because the deputies had reasonable suspicion, it is not necessary for us to decide this issue.
8

2007); see Guzman v. State, 955 S.W.2d 85, 89 (Tex. Crim. App. 1997). The trial court‘s 

evidentiary ruling ―will be upheld on appeal if it is correct on any theory of law that finds support 

in the record.‖ Gonzalez v. State, 195 S.W.3d 114, 126 (Tex. Crim. App. 2006). Generally, we 

review de novo determinations of reasonable suspicion and probable cause after granting 

deference to the trial court‘s determination of historical facts. Guzman, 955 S.W.2d at 87.

An anonymous telephone call rarely will, standing alone, establish the requisite level of 

reasonable suspicion because ―an anonymous tip alone seldom demonstrates the informant‘s basis 

of knowledge or veracity.‖ Alabama v. White, 496 U.S. 325, 329 (1990); see Florida v. J.L., 529 

U.S. 266, 270 (2000). Only an anonymous tip, suitably corroborated or otherwise exhibiting 

sufficient indicia of reliability, will provide reasonable suspicion for a temporary or investigative 

detention. See J.L., 529 U.S. at 270. Police can provide other indicia of reliability by 

independent corroboration of the informant‘s information. See Illinois v. Gates, 462 U.S. 213,

236 (1983); Cassias v. State, 719 S.W.2d 585, 590 (Tex. Crim. App. 1986) (op. on reh‘g). 

―Corroboration by the police officer means that, in light of the circumstances, the officer confirms 

enough facts to reasonably conclude that the information provided is reliable . . . .‖ Jones v. State, 

949 S.W.2d 509, 515 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 1997, no writ).

In general, corroboration of mere innocent details is insufficient to corroborate an 

anonymous tip. Davis v. State, 144 S.W.3d 192, 199–200 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2004, pet.

ref‘d). The independent corroboration by the police must establish that the anonymous tip is 
9

―reliable in its assertion of illegality, not just in its tendency to identify a determinate person.‖ 

J.L., 529 U.S. at 271. ―[T]he corroboration of details that are easily obtainable at the time the 

information is provided, and which do not indicate criminal activity, will not lend support to the 

tip.‖ Stewart v. State, 22 S.W.3d 646, 648 (Tex. App.—Austin 2000, pet. ref‘d); see J.L., 529 

U.S. at 272; Johnson v. State, 146 S.W.3d 719, 721 (Tex. App.—Texarkana 2004, no pet.); Davis

v. State, 989 S.W.2d 859, 861 (Tex. App.—Austin 1999, pet. ref‘d); Parish v. State, 939 S.W.2d 

201, 204 (Tex. App.—Austin 1997, no pet.); Correll v. State, 696 S.W.2d 297, 299 (Tex. 

App.—Fort Worth 1985, writ ref‘d). The United States Supreme Court, though, has recognized 

an exception when the anonymous tip correctly predicts future movements of the suspect. See 

White, 496 U.S. at 332; Gates, 462 U.S. at 245. The Court reasoned:

Because only a small number of people are generally privy to an individual‘s 

itinerary, it is reasonable for police to believe that a person with access to such 

information is likely to also have access to reliable information about that 

individual‘s illegal activities.

White, 496 U.S. at 332. Both Gates and White, however, involved unusual travel itineraries. 

When the travel itinerary is more commonplace, knowledge of a suspect‘s travel plans may not be 

sufficient. See, e.g., Smith v. State, 58 S.W.3d 784, 793 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2001, 

pet. ref‘d) (finding no reasonable suspicion for various reasons, including that travel was down 

―well traveled corridor‖). The question is whether, under the totality of the circumstances, ―an 

informant‘s tip contains a range of details relating not only to easily obtained facts and conditions 

existing at the time of the tip, but also to future actions of third parties ordinarily not easily 
10

predicted.‖ Id. at 789 (citing Gates, 462 U.S. at 245).

The corroboration that Gilmore was traveling toward Houston County in a white Dodge 

pickup truck was not sufficient, by itself, to create reasonable suspicion. The travel was down a 

well traveled corridor, which was the usual route between Crockett and Trinity, and the tip merely 

predicted Gilmore‘s current course of travel, not his future travel itinerary. The United States

Supreme Court has noted:

An accurate description of a subject‘s readily observable location and appearance is 

of course reliable in this limited sense: It will help the police correctly identify the 

person whom the tipster means to accuse. Such a tip, however, does not show that 

the tipster has knowledge of concealed criminal activity. The reasonable 

suspicion here at issue requires that a tip be reliable in its assertion of illegality, not 

just in its tendency to identify a determinate person.

J.L., 529 U.S. at 272 (citations omitted). At trial, Gresham testified the anonymous caller advised 

him ―Ricky Gilmore had just left Trinity County . . . .‖ As made clear in Gresham‘s trial 

testimony,4the anonymous tip in this case did not predict Gilmore‘s future travel plans, but only 

described Gilmore‘s current travel plans. As such, the exception for correctly predicting future 

travel plans does not apply. Although the corroboration is still relevant to the anonymous caller‘s 

reliability, it is not sufficient corroboration by itself.

 

4The testimony of the deputies at trial differed in a number of minor respects from their testimony at the pretrial 

hearing. In reviewing a trial court‘s decision concerning a motion to suppress, we generally consider only evidence 

adduced at the suppression hearing, since the ruling was based on that evidence, rather than evidence introduced later 

in the trial. Rachal v. State, 917 S.W.2d 799, 809 (Tex. Crim. App. 1996). When the legality of the seizure is 

relitigated at trial, however, consideration of relevant trial testimony is appropriate in our review. Id. In this case, 

the issue was relitigated at trial and presented to the jury in the court‘s charge. Therefore, we will consider the 

testimony introduced at trial in our analysis.
11

The corroboration that Gilmore was traveling toward Houston County in a white Dodge 

truck was not the only indicia of reliability known to the deputies. Although the deputies knew 

Gilmore had previously been arrested for drug offenses, it is not clear whether they knew if 

Gilmore had any prior convictions.5 The deputies had also received a tip from a named informant 

that Gilmore was selling drugs. Several weeks previously, another deputy had received a 

statement from a named informant who stated, ―I go to the trailer behind Jan‘s to purchase crack 

cocaine. I gave the money to Jesse McKnight and he goes to the back door to get the dope from 

Ricky Gilmore. This occurs in Crockett, Texas.‖ 

While none of the information known to the deputies would have been sufficient by itself 

to create reasonable suspicion, the information was sufficient when considered together. We 

conclude the anonymous tip, corroborated by Gilmore‘s current course of travel, considered with 

the tip from a named informant and Gilmore‘s arrest record was sufficient under the totality of the 

circumstances to create reasonable suspicion.

The justification for the search favors reasonableness.

(d) Where the Search Was Conducted Favors Reasonableness

The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals has held ―the search must be conducted in a hygienic 

environment where there is no risk of infection.‖ McGee, 105 S.W.3d at 617. The search was 

conducted in a room in the book-in area of the Houston County jail which the deputies referred to 

 

5A person‘s arrest record may be considered along with other specific, articulable facts in determining whether 

reasonable suspicion exists. See Coleman v. State, 188 S.W.3d 708, 719 (Tex. App.—Tyler 2005, pet. ref‘d). Of 

course, knowledge that Gilmore had been convicted of prior drug offenses would be considerably more persuasive. 
12

as the ―strip-search area.‖ Although the search was not conducted in a location as sterile as a 

hospital, the search did not involve any probing of body cavities. In McGee, the Texas Court of 

Criminal Appeals suggested that, when there is no penetration of the body, a less sterile 

environment may be satisfactory. This is not to say visual body-cavity searches may be 

conducted in unsanitary conditions, but merely that the location does not have to be as sterile as a 

hospital when no penetration is involved. We conclude the place where the search was conducted 

was reasonable.

Three of the four factors favor a finding of reasonableness. Like the situation in McGee, 

the only factor that weighs against reasonableness is the intrusiveness of the search. Balancing 

the need for the particular search against the invasion of personal rights, we conclude that the 

visual body-cavity search was reasonable.

We overrule this contention.

(2) Probable Cause Supported the Warrant to Search Gilmore’s Residence

Gilmore also contends that the trial court erred in denying his motion to suppress evidence 

discovered during the search of his residence. The Fourth Amendment to the United States 

Constitution and Article I, Section 9 of the Texas Constitution guarantee the right of the people to 

be secure against unreasonable searches of their persons, houses, papers, and effects. U.S. 

CONST. amend. IV; TEX. CONST. art. I, § 9. After discovering the cocaine during the visual 

body-cavity search, the deputies obtained a search warrant authorizing a search of Gilmore‘s 
13

residence. They discovered glassine bags and electronic scales. Gilmore complains that the 

affidavit used to apply for the warrant fails to allege sufficient facts to establish probable cause.

As an exception to the general rule articulated in Guzman, the issuing magistrate‘s decision 

to grant the search warrant should be reviewed with a deferential standard of review. Swearingen 

v. State, 143 S.W.3d 808, 811 (Tex. Crim. App. 2004). Great deference should be paid to a 

magistrate‘s determination of probable cause, and warrants should not thereafter be invalidated 

through ―hypertechnical‖ interpretation of their supporting affidavits. Gates, 462 U.S. at 236. 

Affidavits for arrest or search warrants should be interpreted in a commonsense and realistic 

manner. Gibbs v. State, 819 S.W.2d 821, 830 (Tex. Crim. App. 1991). Granting great deference 

to the issuing magistrate‘s determination, the appellate court will sustain the issuance of the 

warrant if the magistrate had a substantial basis for concluding that a search would uncover 

evidence of wrongdoing. Gates, 462 U.S. at 236; see Swearingen, 143 S.W.3d at 811.

An application for a search warrant must be supported by an affidavit setting forth facts 

establishing probable cause. TEX. CODE CRIM. PROC. ANN. art. 1.06 (Vernon 2005), art. 18.01(b)

(Vernon Supp. 2009). The determination of the sufficiency of an arrest or search warrant is 

limited to the four corners of the affidavit. Oubre v. State, 542 S.W.2d 875, 877 (Tex. Crim. App. 

1976); Burke v. State, 27 S.W.3d 651, 654 (Tex. App.—Waco 2000, pet. ref‘d). The facts 

contained in the probable cause affidavit must be sufficient to justify a conclusion that the object of 

the search is probably on the premises at the time the warrant is issued. State v. Delagarza, 158 
14

S.W.3d 25, 26 (Tex. App.—Austin 2005, no pet.). The warrant must contain ―sufficient 

information‖ to allow the issuing magistrate to determine probable cause because the magistrate‘s 

action ―cannot be a mere ratification of the bare conclusions of others.‖ Gates, 462 U.S. at 239.

Because probable cause is determined from the ―four corners‖ of the affidavit alone, there 

are no credibility choices to be made by the trial court in determining whether the issuing 

magistrate had a substantial basis to conclude that probable cause existed. Burke, 27 S.W.3d at 

654. Thus, we review de novo the trial court‘s ruling on the motion to suppress. Id. 

The search of Gilmore‘s residence cannot be justified merely on the fact that Gilmore was 

found to possess drugs or that Gilmore was a drug dealer. ―[I]t is not enough to simply conclude 

that contraband is in one‘s home merely because the suspect has a home.‖ Taylor v. State, 54 

S.W.3d 21, 27 (Tex. App.—Amarillo 2001, no pet.) (finding warrant for search of suspect‘s 

residence invalid); see State v. Ozuna, 88 S.W.3d 307, 313 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2002, pet. 

ref‘d). There must be probable cause that drugs would be found at the residence.

The deputies had information which indicated drugs would be found at Gilmore‘s 

residence. The probable cause affidavit in this case provides as follows, in pertinent part:

A. On January 14, 2008[,] Your Affiant received information from an 

anonymous source who stated that Ricky Gilmore was traveling from Trinity, TX 

to Crockett, TX on State Hwy 19 driving a white 1990s model Dodge truck. The 

source stated that the subject was going to have in his possession a quantity of 

cocaine that he had picked up in Trinity, TX. The source also explained to your 

affiant that Gilmore would be carrying the cocaine between his scrotum and anus.

. . . .
15

C. Your Affiant located a white Dodge pick-up truck traveling northbound on 

State Hwy 19. The truck was a 1996 Dodge displaying Texas license plate 

24PDX8. Deputy Smith positively identified that Ricky Lane Gilmore was the 

driver of the truck.

. . . .

I. Once at the jail[,] a strip search was conducted which is common operating 

procedure for suspects that have a prior arrest record for narcotics and for person[s]

suspected of concealing narcotics on there [sic] person. During the strip search[,]

Deputy Smith located a foreign object underneath Gilmore‘s scrotum and between 

his anus. When asked to remove the object[,] Gilmore hesitated but then complied 

and removed a clear plastic sandwich type bag that contained a white powdery 

substance believed to be cocaine.

J. A field test of the substance showed positive for cocaine and the unofficial 

weight of the substance and the packaging is approximately forty-two grams.

K. At approximately 11:45AM[,] your affiant received a telephone call from 

the anonymous source again who wanted to know if Gilmore had been caught. 

The source stated that Gilmore had bragged to him about making ten thousand 

dollars a week from the sales of cocaine, and the informant stated that Gilmore was 

known to keep illegal narcotics and United States currency derived from the sale of 

narcotics on his property, and inside his residence located at 110 Cypress street in 

Crockett, TX.

L. On December 29, 2008[,] Deputy Massingill received a hand written 

witness statement from Emil James Moser[,] a thirty eight year old male who had 

information about Gilmore. In Moser[‘]s statement he writes[,] ―I go to the trailer 

behind Jan‘s grocery to purchase crack cocaine. I give the money to Jesse 

McKnight and he goes to the back door to get the dope from Ricky Gilmore. This 

occurs in Crockett, TX.

M. Your Affiant has known Gilmore to sell cocaine and has been selling 

cocaine for several years. Gilmore‘s criminal history shows arrest for Manufacture/ 

Delivery/Possession of Controlled Substance less than 28 grams, Cocaine 

possession, Possession of Controlled substance penalty group 1 less than one gram, 
16

and driving while license invalid.

Thus, the probable cause affidavit includes two tips, one from an anonymous informant and one 

from a named informant, that drugs would be found at Gilmore‘s residence.

Because of the potential unreliability of statements given by anonymous informants, the 

United States Supreme Court developed the Aguilar-Spinelli analysis, which required a twopronged test asking whether (1) the informant obtained the relevant information in a reliable 

manner, and (2) the informant was reliable. See Gates, 462 U.S. at 230. In response to 

―hypertechnical‖ interpretations of the Aguilar-Spinelli analysis, the United States Supreme Court 

subsequently relaxed the rigid standards in the Aguilar-Spinelli analysis to allow consideration of 

the totality of the circumstances. See id. Because the focus of inquiry is whether the statements 

are sufficiently reliable for a finding of probable cause, a deficiency in one of the two factors of 

reliability of the informant may not be fatal if the totality of the circumstances indicates reliability. 

Id. The totality of the circumstances includes the ―veracity,‖ ―reliability,‖ and the ―basis of 

knowledge‖ of the informant and the informant‘s information. ―[A]n informant‘s  ̳veracity,‘

 ̳reliability,‘ and  ̳basis of knowledge‘ are all highly relevant in determining the value of his 

report.‖ Id. Gates ―did not dispense with the two requirements used in the Aguilar-Spinelli test. 

Rather, the United States Supreme Court simply held that the prongs should not be applied too 

rigorously, and the entire affidavit should be examined to determine whether, as a whole, probable 

cause is established.‖ Ware v. State, 724 S.W.2d 38, 40 (Tex. Crim. App. 1986).
17

There are a number of concerns with the probable cause affidavit in this case. The 

anonymous tip fails to provide much information on either the veracity or reliability of the 

informant. The discovery of drugs during the visual body-cavity search indicates the source is 

reliable, but does not alleviate the concerns about the basis of knowledge of the informant. The 

tip fails to provide any information about how the informant obtained the information. The 

anonymous tip merely states, ―Gilmore was known to keep illegal narcotics . . . inside his 

residence.‖ The tip fails to specify how the anonymous source learned the narcotics were at the 

residence. The phrase ―was known‖ is clearly insufficient, by itself, to establish the basis of 

knowledge of the anonymous call.

The tip from the named informant also lacks any information concerning the basis of the 

knowledge.6 The named informant stated, ―I give the money to Jesse McKnight and he goes to 

the back door to get the dope from Ricky Gilmore.‖ This tip fails to specify how the named 

informant knew the drugs were kept at Gilmore‘s residence. Did the named informant personally 

observe McKnight go to Gilmore‘s residence, or did the named informant merely presume that is 

 

6The tip from the named informant was made to the deputies several weeks before the search of Gilmore‘s residence. 

It is well established that a search warrant cannot be issued based on facts which occurred at too remote a time. See

Garza v. State, 120 Tex. Crim. 147, 48 S.W.2d 625, 626 (1932); Serrano v. State, 123 S.W.3d 53, 60 (Tex. 

App.—Austin 2003, pet. ref‘d). A probable cause affidavit is ―inadequate if it fails to disclose facts which would 

enable the magistrate to ascertain from the affidavit that the event upon which the probable cause was founded was not 

so remote as to render it ineffective.‖ Sherlock v. State, 632 S.W.2d 604, 608 (Tex. Crim. App. 1982) (citing Garza, 

48 S.W.2d at 627–28). On the other hand, the issue of staleness becomes less of a concern when the information 

known to the police shows a continuing course of conduct. See Bernard v. State, 807 S.W.2d 359, 365 (Tex. 

App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 1991, no pet.); see also Bills v. State, 855 S.W.2d 79, 82 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 1993, 

no pet.). We conclude the tips in this case are sufficient to conclude Gilmore was engaging in a continuing course of 

conduct. Therefore, the concerns about the tip from the named informant being stale are alleviated.
18

where McKnight went? A named informant‘s declarations against the informant‘s own penal 

interest may be used to corroborate the reliability of information in an affidavit. Abercrombie v. 

State, 528 S.W.2d 578, 583–85 (Tex. Crim. App. 1974) (op. on reh‘g); Barton v. State, 962 S.W.2d 

132, 143 (Tex. App.—Beaumont 1997, pet. ref‘d). Although the named informant‘s admissions 

against the informant‘s own penal interests may corroborate the named informant‘s reliability, the 

named informant‘s veracity is still suspect. The deputies lacked any information about how the 

named informant knew drugs were kept at Gilmore‘s residence.

Despite these shortcomings, the tip from the named informant provides additional indicia 

of reliability to the anonymous call. In addition, the deputies knew Gilmore had previously been 

arrested for drug offenses and had been found in possession of cocaine only a few hours earlier. 

We are to afford great deference to the issuing magistrate. Whether we would have found 

probable cause under the facts presented in the probable cause affidavit, our review is concerned 

only with whether there is a substantial basis for the issuing magistrate to find probable cause 

existed. While the anonymous tip was deficient concerning both veracity and reliability, these 

deficiencies were compensated for by other indicia of reliability. The deputies had received a tip 

from a named informant that was consistent with the anonymous tip. In addition, the deputies 

knew that Gilmore had been arrested for drug offenses in the past. Finally, the first tip from the 

anonymous tipster had proven to be correct by the visual body-cavity search. Under the totality 

of the circumstances, the anonymous tip, considered with the other indicia of reliability, was 
19

sufficient to provide the issuing magistrate a substantial basis to conclude probable cause existed. 

We overrule this contention.

(3) Any Error in Refusing Gilmore a Continuance Was Not Preserved

Gilmore also argues that the trial court erred in denying a motion for continuance made by 

an attorney his family had retained a week before trial. The motion was presented orally to the 

trial court the day of trial, immediately preceding voir dire. The State responds that the trial court 

did not abuse its discretion.

First, the error, if any, is not preserved for our review. A motion for continuance made 

during trial that is not in writing and is not sworn to will not preserve error if it is denied. 

Anderson v. State, 301 S.W.3d 276, 279 (Tex. Crim. App. 2009); Matamoros v. State, 901 S.W.2d 

470, 478 (Tex. Crim. App. 1995); see TEX. CODE CRIM. PROC. ANN. arts. 29.03, 29.08 (Vernon 

2006). The record in this case does not contain any written motion requesting a continuance so 

that Gilmore‘s newly retained counsel could represent him.7 The request for a continuance made 

by Gilmore‘s newly retained counsel was made orally to the trial court. The issue raised by 

Gilmore on appeal is not preserved for appellate review. 

Even if error had been preserved, Gilmore has failed to show the trial court abused its 

discretion. A criminal defendant has a right to secure counsel of his or her own choice. United 

 

7The record contains a written motion for continuance filed by Gilmore‘s appointed counsel which requests a 

continuance because Gilmore had ceased discussing the case with his appointed counsel on learning his family had 

retained another attorney to represent him. This motion, though, does not request a continuance on behalf of the 

newly retained attorney.
20

States v. Gonzalez-Lopez, 548 U.S. 140, 144 (2006); Wheat v. United States, 486 U.S. 153, 159

(1988); Powell v. Alabama, 287 U.S. 45 (1932). The United States Supreme Court, though,

specifically acknowledged the right ―is circumscribed in several important respects.‖

Gonzalez-Lopez, 548 U.S. at 144 (quoting Wheat, 486 U.S. at 159). A defendant cannot wait until 

the day of trial to demand different counsel or to request that counsel be dismissed so that he or she 

may retain other counsel. Neal v. State, 689 S.W.2d 420, 427 (Tex. Crim. App. 1984); Ramirez v. 

State, No. 2-09-136-CR, 2010 Tex. App. LEXIS 3663, at *20–21 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 

May 13, 2010, no pet. h.) (mem. op., not designated for publication).

The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals has announced several factors which trial courts may 

consider in deciding whether to grant a continuance, including:

(1) the length of the delay requested, (2) whether other continuances were 

requested and whether they were denied or granted, (3) the length of time in which 

the accused‘s counsel had to prepare for trial, (4) whether another competent 

attorney was prepared to try the case, (5) the balanced convenience or 

inconvenience to the witnesses, the opposing counsel, and the trial court, 

(6) whether the delay is for legitimate or contrived reasons, (7) whether the case 

was complex or simple, (8) whether a denial of the motion resulted in some 

identifiable harm to the defendant, (9) the quality of legal representation actually 

provided.

Ex parte Windham, 634 S.W.2d 718, 720 (Tex. Crim. App. 1982); see Rosales v. State, 841 

S.W.2d 368, 375 (Tex. Crim. App. 1992). ―In addition to all of these factors, it must be 

remembered that the public interest in the fair and orderly administration of justice may be greater 

than a defendant‘s right to have counsel of his choice.‖ Id. Although the trial court had 
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scheduled the trial date approximately three months before the date of trial, Gilmore‘s counsel of 

choice was not retained until the week before trial. Gilmore‘s newly retained counsel first orally 

requested a ninety-day continuance. After the trial court denied the substitution of counsel, 

Gilmore‘s newly retained counsel orally requested a sixty-day continuance, which the trial court 

also denied. The State represented to the court that it did not have any other cases ready for trial 

on that day. Even if this issue had been preserved for review, the trial court did not abuse its 

discretion.

We overrule this contention.

(4) Insufficient Causal Connection Was Established to Permit Impeaching Gresham with 

Federal Charges

Gilmore also asserts the trial court erred in refusing to permit Gilmore to impeach Gresham 

based on pending criminal charges that had been filed against Gresham in federal court. Gresham 

received the initial anonymous tip and assisted in the investigation of Gilmore. Gresham had 

been charged with a violation of civil rights and entered a plea agreement in which he agreed to 

plead guilty to simple assault. Gresham was awaiting sentencing on the plea agreement. The 

trial court refused to permit the impeachment evidence to be introduced. 

Gilmore cites Maxwell v. State, 48 S.W.3d 196, 200 (Tex. Crim. App. 2001), overruled to 

the extent it conflicts with Carpenter v. State, 979 S.W.2d 633, 634 (Tex. Crim. App. 1998), by 

Irby v. State, No. PD-1097-08, 2010 Tex. Crim. App. LEXIS 725 (Tex. Crim. App. June 16, 2010),
22

in support of his argument.8 The State argues Gilmore failed to establish a causal connection 

between the pending charges in federal court and a bias or motive to testify favorably for the State.

Impeachment based on proof of circumstances showing bias is permitted unless the 

probative value of the evidence is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice. See

TEX. R. EVID. 403, 613; see also Davis v. Alaska, 415 U.S. 308 (1974) (right to confront witnesses 

includes right to cross-examine witnesses concerning their possible bias, self-interest, or motives 

in testifying); Hammer v. State, 296 S.W.3d 555, 561 (Tex. Crim. App. 2009). The Texas Court 

of Criminal Appeals has held that the existence of an express agreement between the witness and 

the State is not determinative of whether pending charges reveal bias. Carroll v. State, 916 

S.W.2d 494, 500 (Tex. Crim. App. 1996). The proponent of the impeachment evidence, 

however, ―must establish some causal connection or logical relationship between the pending 

charges and the witness‘  ̳vulnerable relationship‘ or potential bias or prejudice for the State, or 

testimony at trial.‖ Carpenter, 979 S.W.2d at 634. The facts in Carpenter were similar to this 

case. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals held there was no causal connection between the 

existence of pending federal charges and the witness‘ testimony at trial. As in Carpenter, 

Gilmore has failed to establish a causal connection between the pending federal charges and 

Gresham‘s testimony at trial. At trial, Gilmore argued, because Gresham‘s presentence 

investigation report had not been completed, Gresham had a motive to be biased toward the State. 

This argument is the equivalent of the mere existence of federal charges and fails to establish a 

 

8The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals issued its opinion in Irby after the parties had filed their briefs in this case. 
23

nexus or causal connection indicating bias. The trial court did not err in refusing to permit the 

impeachment of Gresham.

For the reasons stated, we affirm the judgment of the trial court.

Josh R. Morriss, III

Chief Justice

Date Submitted: July 6, 2010

Date Decided: August 12, 2010

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