Opinion ID: 776544
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Ineffective cross-examination

Text: 78 Martin argues that his trial counsel rendered ineffective assistance by failing to: (1) effectively cross-examine Pedro regarding: (a) the inconsistency between Pedro's and Kidd's testimony and Pedro's previous statement concerning whether Martin dropped the two off, or went inside with them, at an after-hours establishment; (b) Pedro's falling out with Henderson and the question of whether Henderson held a grudge against Pedro and Martin; (c) Pedro's rendition of how she found money at Robinson's store; (d) Pedro's testimony that she had argued with Martin on the day of their arrests; and (2) effectively cross-examine Henderson, regarding: (a) her grudge against Martin; and (b) inconsistency between her testimony and Pedro's testimony about overhearing discussions of the plan to rob Robinson. 79 Martin's arguments with regard to effective cross-examination of Pedro and Henderson are without merit. Martin points only to attenuated collateral facts and nonexistent inconsistencies in making this argument. Where arguably material inconsistencies exist, such as Henderson's and Pedro's recollections of when the robbery was discussed, other evidence (Foster's testimony about the theft of the gun, ballistics evidence, Kidd's testimony about Martin's possessing empty shell casings) corroborates or independently proves the facts that Martin contends effective cross-examination would have questioned. In sum, the overwhelming nature of the evidence of guilt precludes Martin from showing prejudice resulting from any alleged deficiency in his counsel's cross-examination.