Opinion ID: 2119337
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: sufficiency of the evidence

Text: Light asserts that the State failed to sufficiently prove the corpus deliciti, that there was not sudden heat, the element of knowingly, and any involvement of Light. First, as noted above, the State demonstrated corpus deliciti. Second, when sudden heat is in issue, the State must disprove its existence beyond a reasonable doubt. Palmer v. State (1981), Ind., 425 N.E.2d 640. The evidence favorable to the jury verdict is found in the sexual nature of Light's trip with Starr to the wooded area, his attempt to hide the crime, and the likelihood that Light chased the victim or carried her body from the scene of the killing. We conclude that the evidence permitted the jury to conclude that Light acted with the requisite culpability for murder and not under sudden heat. Third, the State carries the burden of proof on the knowingly element of murder. Intent to kill may be inferred from the use of a deadly weapon in a manner likely to cause death or great bodily harm. Rhinehardt v. State (1985), Ind., 477 N.E.2d 89. Three separate fatal blows were inflicted upon the victim, according to the forensic pathologist. The State met its burden. Fourth, Light argues that there is insufficient proof of his involvement to any extent because of Light's equivocal responses during his taped interrogation. We agree that many of Light's responses were equivocal. On the other hand, while Light's statements were the only direct evidence linking him to the crime, other circumstantial evidence connected him to it.