Opinion ID: 1158278
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: APPLICATION OF FOUCHA v. LOUISIANA

Text: As in Gafford and Nielsen, the State contends that the holding in Foucha represents a new rule of constitutional law that should not be retroactively applied to Henry's case. For the reasons set forth in Gafford, we hold that Foucha applies to the terms of Henry's present and continuing confinement. See Gafford, 127 Idaho at 474, 903 P.2d at 63. Accordingly, we will proceed first to a review of the relevant factual findings made by the trial court. We will then determine whether Henry's present confinement violates due process under the analysis articulated in Foucha. A. The Finding That Henry is Dangerous is Supported by Substantial and Competent Evidence The magistrate found that the release of Henry from custody at this time would create a clear and present danger to others in our society. The State produced a significant amount of evidence to the effect that Henry is a violent person who has irresistible pedophilic tendencies, and that he is highly predatory with regard to young children. Therefore, we hold that the magistrate's finding on this issue is not clearly erroneous. B. The Finding That Henry Continues to Suffer From the Mental Condition Which was the Basis for his Acquittal is Supported by Substantial and Competent Evidence With regard to Henry's mental condition, the magistrate found that the underlying basis for the acquittal and commitment of Henry as found by Judge Reinhardt in 1979 still exists. This finding is likewise supported by substantial and competent evidence. The State presented substantial expert testimony that Henry has a mental defect that substantially impairs his ability to appreciate the wrongfulness of his conduct and to conform his conduct to the requirements of law. It also produced evidence that Henry's mental condition has not changed during the course of his hospitalization. In light of this evidence, we conclude that the magistrate's finding on this issue is not clearly erroneous. C. Foucha Does not Mandate Henry's Release As stated above, the record establishes that the basis for Henry's criminal acquittal and commitment persists. It also establishes that Henry is dangerous. For the reasons set forth in Nielsen, we hold that Henry is not entitled to release on the ground that his present confinement denies him due process of law. See Nielsen, 127 Idaho at 451-52, 902 P.2d at 476-77.