Opinion ID: 69278
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Improper Commentary on the Evidence

Text: Ekiko argues that he was denied his right to a presumption of innocence because the Government referred to Ekiko as a “co-conspirator” when responding to a hearsay objection. Ekiko did not object at the time the statement was made; thus, the issue is reviewed for plain error. United States v. Stephens, 571 F.3d 401, 408 (5th Cir. 2009). To obtain relief, Ekiko must demonstrate (1) error; (2) that the error is plain; and (3) that it affected his substantial rights. Id. Even if Ekiko meets that burden, this court still retains the discretion to “decide whether to reverse the conviction, which [it] generally will not do unless the plain error seriously affected the fairness, integrity, or public reputation of the judicial proceeding.” Id. (quotation marks and citation omitted). Examining the Government’s statement in context, Ekiko cannot demonstrate plain error or that the error seriously affected the fairness of the proceedings. Initially, he cannot even demonstrate that the Government’s statement was improper. The Government merely stated an exception to the hearsay rule and did not elaborate or otherwise comment on the evidence. Further, the Government’s statement was isolated, targeted at the court rather than the jury, and was only one statement during a lengthy cross-examination. Even assuming the Government’s statement was improper, it was not prejudicial. See, e.g., United States v. Hitt, 473 F.3d 146, 161 (5th Cir. 2006). Accordingly, Ekiko’s argument fails.