Opinion ID: 1854566
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Sufficiency of the Evidence Supporting Carter's Convictions

Text: Although not argued by Carter, we independently review the record to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to support Carter's first-degree murder convictions. See Fla. R.App. P. 9.140(i); Davis v. State, 859 So.2d 465, 480 (Fla. 2003). Upon review of the record, we find that competent, substantial evidence exists to support Carter's convictions. Carter admitted killing Reed, Pafford, and Smith, and his trial testimony and the events surrounding the murders are supported by the direct testimony of those involved in this case. For example, Richard Smith testified that he answered the telephone call Carter made to Reed earlier in the evening and heard the gunshots before discovering the bodies of Reed, Pafford, and Smith. Also, Christian Carter testified that he observed Carter behaving suspiciously in the neighborhood of the Reed residence in the weeks prior to the murders. No competent evidence was presented to dispute the evidence in support of Carter's convictions.