Opinion ID: 492473
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: sufficiency of the evidence

Text: 17 Although the assailant's knowledge of the victim's official capacity and duty status is irrelevant, conviction under Sec. 111 requires sufficient proof that a federal agent was assaulted while engaged in or on account of the performance of his official duties. 18 U.S.C. Sec. 111 (1982). Viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the prosecution, and drawing all reasonable inferences therefrom, a rational trier of fact could have found the essential elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. See Sommerstedt, 752 F.2d at 1496 (9th Cir.1985); United States v. Spears, 631 F.2d 114, 117 (9th Cir.1980). 18 Here, the evidence was sufficient to satisfy either prong of Sec. 111. Testimony by Assistant Chief Ranger Inman, a defense witness, established that Miller was on duty 24 hours a day. When Miller asked Hohman to comply with local regulations by removing the dog, he was engaged in the performance of his duties. When Hohman struck Wilson, it was on account of that performance. See United States v. Spears, 631 F.2d 114 (9th Cir.1980) (testimony that Wilderness Officer was on duty 24 hours a day was sufficient even though the officer had taken off his shirt, and shared a drink with the assailant); United States v. Velarde, 528 F.2d 387 (9th Cir.1975), cert. denied, 425 U.S. 914, 96 S.Ct. 1513, 47 L.Ed.2d 765 (1976) (evidence that off duty narcotics agent attending a wedding was assaulted because he was recognized as an agent was sufficient for the jury to conclude that he was singled out because of his status). 19 In his order denying a post-judgment motion for acquittal, the district judge observed: 20 There was ample testimony that park rangers are on-duty twenty-four (24) hours a day and are required to enforce park rules and regulations at all times whether or not they are wearing their uniforms. Defendant's own witness supported this position.