Opinion ID: 440528
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Tiedeberg's Intent to Join the Conspiracy

Text: 99 Next, we must determine whether a reasonable trier of fact could find beyond a reasonable doubt that Tiedeberg intended to join or associate himself with the conspiracy's objectives. United States v. Willis, 646 F.2d 189 (5th Cir.1981); United States v. Malatesta, 590 F.2d at 1381. 100 The evidence presented at trial established that although numerous telephone calls and meetings were held between agents and various appellants from July 28, 1982, through August 3, 1982, Tiedeberg did not participate in those conversations or meetings, nor was his name mentioned. 101 McShane testified that appellant, James Tortoriello, told him that Tiedeberg was his bodyguard, that he weighed 330 pounds, and that he had a black belt in karate. The agents first saw Tiedeberg on August 4, 1982, when Tiedeberg appeared with Shapiro at Agent McShane's hotel room. At that time, Tiedeberg frisked McShane and searched his hotel room. While in the bathroom examining the paintings, McShane asked Tiedeberg if they would be talking price, and Tiedeberg shrugged his shoulders. 102 At trial, McShane described Tiedeberg's conversation as consisting of uh-huh, and ah-hah, and aw-haw, and yep, with the single exception of a request that McShane remove his shirt. It is clear that Tiedeberg did not indicate an intent to join the conspiracy, but rather served as a guard for the paintings at all material times.