Opinion ID: 50608
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: standard of review

Text: A material variance occurs “when the proof at trial depicts -8- a scenario that differs materially from the scenario charged in the indictment but does not modify an essential element of the charged offense.” United States v. Delgado, 401 F.3d 290, 295 (5th Cir. 2005). We determine whether a variance occurred by comparing the evidence presented at trial with the language of the indictment. See United States v. Medina, 161 F.3d 867, 872 (5th Cir. 1998). If a variance did occur, we reverse only if the variance prejudiced the defendant’s substantial rights. See Delgado, 401 F.3d at 295; Medina, 161 F.3d at 872. In determining whether a material variance resulted in prejudice, we employ a harmless-error analysis. United States v. Ramirez, 145 F.3d 345, 351 (5th Cir. 1998); United States v. Dean, 59 F.3d 1479, 1491 (5th Cir. 1995). The question whether the evidence establishes the existence of one conspiracy (as alleged in the indictment) or multiple conspiracies is a fact question within the jury’s province. United States v. Morrow, 177 F.3d 272, 291 (5th Cir. 1999) (per curiam) (citing United States v. Morgan, 117 F.3d 849, 858 (5th Cir. 1997)). We will affirm the jury’s finding that the government proved a single conspiracy “unless the evidence and all reasonable inferences, examined in the light most favorable to the government, would preclude reasonable jurors from finding a single conspiracy beyond a reasonable doubt.” Morris, 46 F.3d at 415 (quoting United States v. DeVarona, 872 F.2d 114, 118 (5th Cir. 1989)); see also Morrow, 177 F.3d at 291 (quoting Morgan, -9- 117 F.3d at 858). Even where the evidence points to multiple conspiracies rather than the single conspiracy charged in the indictment, the variance does not affect the defendant’s substantial rights as long as the government establishes the defendant’s involvement in at least one of the proved conspiracies. Morrow, 177 F.3d at 291.