Opinion ID: 2739855
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Testimony of Alexander

Text: Former ADA Alexander testified that during the screening of Isaac’s case, he spoke with Barabino, who relayed to him the essential facts surrounding the interaction between him and Isaac on the day in question. In Alexander’s view, his intent was not to prove that Isaac had sold heroin to Barabino or anyone else. Rather, he theorized that Isaac was a “jackman” who had tried to rob Barabino of his stash. This theory was based on Alexander’s purported familiarity with the drug trade gained during his previous three years working as a criminal defense attorney. Alexander further testified that he did not coerce, threaten, or intimidate Harris or Barabino into testifying at Isaac’s trial because he “didn’t have any reason to.” His only instruction to either witness was to “[t]ell the truth,” which they did, to his knowledge. Alexander also testified that he harbored no particular grudge against Isaac and that Isaac’s prosecution was “just another case.” On cross-examination, Alexander explained his theory at trial—that Isaac had intended to rob Barabino of his heroin stash—was based on the facts of the case, including Isaac’s possession of multiple firearms and a flak jacket. Alexander testified that Harris was a very cooperative witness who wanted to testify despite concerns that she might be in trouble. Alexander assured her that nothing was going to happen to her and that she needed to speak honestly about her knowledge about the case. Alexander testified that he did not provide Harris with housing during the prosecution and did not help her obtain Section 8 housing. He also categorically denied threatening Harris with jail if she did not testify against Isaac, and stated that anyone testifying that he did so “[would] be lying.” Finally, Alexander reiterated that he did not tell Harris to testify that Isaac procured drugs to give to Sterling. On redirect examination, Alexander testified that he put the State’s offer of immunity for Harris on the record in open court. 7 Case: 13-31013 Document: 00512792766 Page: 8 Date Filed: 10/03/2014 No. 13-31013