Opinion ID: 1433861
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 17

Heading: Inadequate investigation and review of discovery

Text: Defendant contends counsel's investigation and review of discovery were inadequate because he failed to interview Patricia Islas or to anticipate her testimony about statements made by Ramirez. At trial, counsel made a hearsay objection to this testimony and also complained the statements had not been disclosed on discovery. In response, the prosecutor noted they were contained in a police report. On that basis, defendant asserts counsel's review and preparation must have been deficient. The record reflects, however, that the discovery objection was predicated on a lack of detail in the report regarding Ramirez's statements, implying counsel had in fact reviewed what was provided. The record also suggests a defense investigator contacted Islas prior to trial. More importantly, even if he did not, defendant fails to establish additional investigation would have produced exculpatory or impeachment evidence.