Opinion ID: 2219727
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: Status of Evidence

Text: The bank also urges the evidence was insufficient to sustain the verdict. In assessing that claim, we recall the corollary to the rule set forth in part IV(1) above concerning the circumstances under which a directed verdict at the close of all the evidence may be granted; that is, that on a motion for judgment non obstante veredicto, or notwithstanding the verdict, the moving party is deemed to have admitted as true all the relevant evidence admitted which is favorable to the party against whom the motion is directed, and, further, the party against whom the motion is directed is entitled to the benefit of all proper inferences deducible from the relevant evidence. Critchfield v. McNamara, 248 Neb. 39, 532 N.W.2d 287 (1995); Humphrey v. Nebraska Public Power Dist., 243 Neb. 872, 503 N.W.2d 211 (1993). First, the bank urges that as the amount of the verdict was less than Melcher's opinion as to the value of the 4450, there is no evidence to support that amount. The argument overlooks the evidence as to the price at which the unit was sold at auction; that evidence was received without objection. The applicable rule is that where evidence is admitted generally, it may be considered for any purpose for which it is relevant and competent. See Baxter v. National Mtg. Loan Co., 128 Neb. 537, 259 N.W. 630 (1935). That being so, the verdict amount, being within the range of the evidence, is adequately supported by the evidence. Sayer Acres, Inc. v. Middle Republican Nat. Resources Dist., 205 Neb. 360, 287 N.W.2d 692 (1980) (condemnation award within range of evidence not clearly wrong). Additionally, the bank argues that the evidence does not support a finding that Melcher owned the 4450. While it is true that reasonable minds could well conclude from the evidence that the son owned the unit, it cannot be said that reasonable minds could not conclude that Melcher owned it. Melcher had testified that he bought the 4450, that he was in continuous possession of it, and that he had never given or transferred title to anyone. The credibility of a witness is an issue for the jury. Roberts v. Weber & Sons, Co., 248 Neb. 243, 533 N.W.2d 664 (1995). Viewed in the light most favorable to Melcher, the evidence establishes a prima facie case for conversion, and the question was thus properly submitted to a jury. See Barelmann v. Fox, 239 Neb. 771, 478 N.W.2d 548 (1992) (plaintiff in conversion must show (1) immediate right to possession of property and (2) its wrongful possession by tort-feasor).