Opinion ID: 2083904
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Sufficiency of the Evidence Battery

Text: Straub next claims that the evidence was insufficient to support the conviction for battery with a deadly weapon. The facts in this case are not in dispute. While in the Corner Pub, Straub had an argument with Best. At Straub's instructions, his girlfriend left the tavern, retrieved a gun, re-entered the tavern, and handed it to Straub. Both then left the Pub, as Straub said words to the effect that someone would be sorry. Once in the parking lot, Straub said he wanted to scare these people. He proceeded to discharge several rounds from the weapon in the direction of the tavern building. One of the bullets went through a window into the tavern. James Gates, another tavern patron, was struck either by the bullet or by glass from the window shattered by the bullet. On appeal, this Court will examine the evidence most favorable to the State, plus all reasonable inferences. Oatts v. State (1982), Ind., 437 N.E.2d 463. This Court will not weigh the evidence or judge the credibility of the witnesses. Douglas v. State (1982), Ind., 441 N.E.2d 957. If there is evidence of probative value to support the conclusion of the trier of fact, the verdict will not be overturned. Harden v. State (1982), Ind., 441 N.E.2d 215. Defendant argues that although his conduct would have supported a guilty verdict for criminal recklessness, Ind. Code § 35-42-2-2, the evidence fails to give rise to any inference that his behavior was intentional. We do not agree. As we have already noted, intent to commit battery may be inferred from the deliberate use of a deadly weapon. Matthews v. State (1985), Ind., 476 N.E.2d 847. Taking into account the manner in which Straub used the deadly weapon, and his statements and demeanor before and upon departure from the bar, we believe the jury could have properly concluded that Straub knowingly or intentionally battered Mr. Gates.