Opinion ID: 2587254
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Omission of theory in mitigation

Text: Defendant contends that defense counsel rendered ineffective assistance by failing to present evidence to establish that defendant committed the murder while under the influence of alcohol in combination with medication that adversely affected his mental capacityโevidence that would have suggested he was less culpable and less deserving of the death penalty. Defendant observes that pursuant to section 190.3, factor (h), the jury was authorized to consider whether his capacity to appreciate the criminality of his conduct or to conform his conduct to the requirements of the law was impaired as a result of mental disease or defect or the effects of intoxication. In fact, defendant testified that on the evening of the shooting he had visited several bars. He also testified that he had a drinking problem and that when he became intoxicated, he was not in control of his behavior. The record does not disclose what investigation was performed by counsel, what evidence might have been derived from defendant's use of alcohol in combination with medication, and what effect such evidence might have had on the jury. Therefore, we cannot conclude on the record before us that counsel provided ineffective assistance. ( People v. Ochoa, supra, 19 Cal.4th 353, 433-434, 79 Cal. Rptr.2d 408, 966 P.2d 442; People v. Millwee, supra, 18 Cal.4th 96, 148-149, 74 Cal.Rptr.2d 418, 954 P.2d 990; People v. Hayes (1990) 52 Cal.3d 577, 636, 276 Cal. Rptr. 874, 802 P.2d 376.)