Opinion ID: 166738
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: conclusion

Text: For the reasons set forth, we AFFIRM Mr. Lee’s conviction and sentence. 10 We possess a considerable degree of discretion in deciding whether to sua sponte apply a harmless error review, and in so doing, consider the length and complexity of the record, whether the harmlessness of the error is certain and debatable, and whether a reversal would result in protracted, costly and futile proceedings in the district court. See United States v. Samaniego, 187 F.3d 1222, 1224-26 (10th Cir. 1999). In this case, we exercise our discretion to make such a harmlessness inquiry, noting: 1) Mr. Lee’s case is not complex, involving only two criminal counts, a brief suppression hearing, testimony of only two witnesses, and a traffic stop tape which speaks for itself; 2) the outcome of a harmlessness inquiry, if taken, would not be debatable, given the other evidence implicating Mr. Lee; and 3) for the same reasons, reversal to the district court would be futile, given the other evidence clearly incriminating Mr. Lee. Our harmless error review is equivalent or similar to the “inevitable discovery exception” which the government also did not raise as an alternative argument on appeal. -27- Entered by the Court: WADE BRORBY