Opinion ID: 1258775
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: standard of review for the third degree rape conviction

Text: Craney argues it is plain error for the trial judge to instruct the jury that third degree sexual assault is a lesser included offense of first degree sexual assault. We agree. Lacking proper trial objection, the jury instruction at issue requires analysis under the plain error doctrine. See Keller v. State, 771 P.2d 379, 383 (Wyo. 1989). Our standard of review under plain error is well established. `First, the record must be clear as to the incident which is alleged as error. Second, the party claiming that the error amounted to plain error must demonstrate that a clear and unequivocal rule of law was violated. Finally, that party must prove that a substantial right has been denied him and as a result he has been materially prejudiced.' Johnston v. State, 747 P.2d 1132, 1134 (Wyo. 1987) (quoting Auclair v. State, 660 P.2d 1156, 1159 (Wyo. 1983), cert. denied 464 U.S. 909, 104 S.Ct. 265, 78 L.Ed.2d 249 and Bradley v. State, 635 P.2d 1161, 1164 (Wyo. 1981)). See W.R.Cr.P. 49(b).