Opinion ID: 577182
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Aliases

Text: 26 Appellants contend that the use of aliases in testimony and in the indictment was reversible error because it amounted to improper evidence of Crenshaw's previous arrests and both defendants' bad character. It is clear, however, that [t]he use of an alias in an indictment and in evidence is permissible if it is necessary to connect the defendants with the acts charged. United States v. Jorge-Salon, 734 F.2d 789, 791-92 (11th Cir.1984). In this case the Government produced substantial evidence that the appellants had used all of the different names listed in the indictment and mentioned during testimony. The complainant testified that Hines identified himself to her as Ronnie, and Crenshaw identified himself as Johnny. Crenshaw subsequently told SA Gabriel that his true name was Eric James, R2-73-15; FBI records, however, identified him as Eric Johnson. Crenshaw told the trial court that his true name is Fred Crenshaw III, which was used throughout trial. The Government connected the appellants to all of the aliases referenced at trial; it was not error to allow their use in evidence.