Opinion ID: 1439460
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Testimony of Green Family

Text: Appellant argues that the circuit court erred by allowing the testimony of Joshua, Amber, Chad, and Mary Green regarding appellant's control and abusive treatment of his family. This argument has no merit. The testimony of appellant's children and wife is admissible to prove that he had control over his family, not to prove that appellant committed the crime. The testimony proves that appellant had the intent to use his family members to commit these crimes because they were too scared of appellant to say no and walk away. The testimony also showed that the fear appellant instilled in his family was so great that they were afraid to come forward with any information until appellant was behind bars. Appellant's control over his family is relevant to show his intent to commit these murders. His control goes to the issue of premeditation and deliberation. Moreover, these statements were not more prejudicial than probative. The trial court did not abuse its discretion by allowing this testimony under Rule 404(b), and appellant's argument regarding the issue of control is meritless. Regarding the testimony of Mary Green concerning her safety after appellant's arrest, the trial court ruled that what basically happened is that you impeached her and he rehabilitated her and she went on and on and on. The court overruled the objection and offered a limiting instruction to advise the jury to disregard her redirect testimony. However, appellant chose not to have the limiting instruction given. As such, even if the remark were improper, the trial court may deny the mistrial motion and cure any prejudice by issuing a jury admonishment to disregard the remark. Dandridge, 292 Ark. 40, 727 S.W.2d 851. Here, appellant declined a jury admonishment or a limiting instruction even though the trial court offered one. Appellant cannot prove any prejudice. Therefore, the trial court did not abuse its discretion.