Opinion ID: 1952232
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: sufficiency of the evidence

Text: [¶ 13] When reviewing for a sufficiency of the evidence, we examine the record in the light most favorable to the State to determine whether a trier of fact rationally could find beyond a reasonable doubt every element of the offense charged. State v. Marden, 673 A.2d 1304, 1311 (Me.1996). A conviction may rest entirely on circumstantial evidence. State v. Hayes, 675 A.2d 106, 109 (Me.1996). The weight to be given to the evidence and determinations of witness credibility are the exclusive province of the factfinder. State v. Harper, 675 A.2d 495, 497 (Me.1996). [¶ 14] The State prosecuted Branch-Wear on the theory that she was guilty of acts of commission in violation of the statutory provision making it a crime to induce or otherwise cause, or attempt to induce or cause, a victim to withhold testimony, information or evidence, when the alleged tamperer believes that an official proceeding or criminal investigation is pending. 17-A M.R.S.A. § 454(1)(A)(2). Contrary to Branch-Wear's arguments, the statutory provision does not require proof of the alleged victim's intent to testify, or that she has been subpoenaed. Id. As demonstrated by the facts recounted above, ample evidence was adduced at the trial to support the jury's determination that the State had proved beyond a reasonable doubt that after promising to produce her daughter for the trial in Portland, Branch-Wear removed her daughter from Maine to Massachusetts and took affirmative steps to prevent her from testifying at the trial of Frank Wear. [4]