Opinion ID: 793667
Heading Depth: 5
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Law Enforcement Witnesses

Text: 42 During a recess, Reep's attorney observed two Government witnesses, Officer Heath Eckstein (who had just testified) and Officer John Poch (who was about to testify), talking in the hallway. According to counsel, the officers were going over a report that Officer Eckstein held in his hand. J.A. 1393. Although the court allowed Reep's counsel to question Officer Poch regarding the conversation, after counsel exceeded the bounds set by the court for this examination, the court questioned the officers. Both officers — who were partners in the investigation of the conspiracy—admitted having a conversation, but denied discussing the trial. 5 The court refused to allow Reep's counsel to further cross-examine the officers about their conversation. Reep contends that this refusal was an abuse of discretion. 43 When a party alleges a violation of a sequestration order, the court may allow the matter to be explored through cross-examination. U.S. v. Sepulveda, 15 F.3d 1161, 1175 n. 8 (1st Cir. 1993). The party alleging a violation bears the burden of demonstrating that a violation in fact occurred. U.S. v. Meggers, 912 F.2d 246, 250 (8th Cir. 1990). Here, both Reep's counsel and the district court examined the officers regarding the potential violation of the sequestration order without producing any indication that the officers had discussed the case. The district court did not abuse its discretion in prohibiting further cross-examination. 6