Opinion ID: 2330640
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: Investigation into Victim's Propensity for Violence

Text: [¶ 16] Regarding trial counsel's alleged inadequate investigation, Kramer argues that had defense counsel delved further into the victim's background, the inquiry would have revealed a violent character and helped to prove Kramer's theory of defense. Four people testified regarding Devore's reputation at the Calene hearing. However, of the four witnesses, two became acquainted with Devore after the shooting and thus could not speak to his character relevant to the night of the shooting. The other two witnesses testified about specific instances of violence by Devore that happened after the shooting. At trial, the jury heard evidence regarding Kramer's state of mind at the time he confronted Devore, and that Kramer's mother and sister, who he was ostensibly protecting, were not present at the time of the shooting. Taking all of this into consideration, we cannot conclude that counsel was ineffective for not further investigating Devore's background.