Opinion ID: 2570430
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Flight and Prior Inconsistent Statements

Text: ¶ 39 Having reviewed both forms of evidence and having pointed out the inherent weaknesses in each, we now reach the question of whether evidence of flight is sufficient to corroborate prior inconsistent statements admitted as substantive evidence of guilt. We conclude that the answer to this question must be, No. Holding that two forms of evidence, each unreliable in its own right, nonetheless, when taken together, are sufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, accords the sum of the evidence a characteristic trustworthiness that neither of its constituent parts possesses. Simply put, zero and zero cannot make one. Therefore, we hold, as a matter of law, that evidence of flight cannot be the sole corroboration of a prior inconsistent statement admitted as substantive evidence of guilt. ¶ 40 We now turn to apply this rule to the instant case. Here, Deborah's prior inconsistent statements and Giant's flight implicate him as the assailant. Deborah's prior inconsistent statements require corroboration because Deborah refused to identify Giant as the assailant at trial. Because of the divorce and Giant's possible fear of being falsely accused, Giant's flight is as consistent with innocence as it is with guilt. The remaining evidence in this case consists of the physical evidence recovered from the home and the photographs of Deborah's injury. This evidence, which would normally be sufficient corroborating evidence, is insufficient in this case because it does not corroborate the essential element of identity needed because Deborah identified another possible assailant.