Opinion ID: 11538
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: cushman

Text: 50 Finally, we consider Ottesen's testimony against Cushman. Although there was sufficient evidence to convict Cushman without Ottesen's testimony, that is not the appropriate inquiry. As set forth above, Ottesen testified that Cushman stated he knew the Twin Elephant would not have any production and that he did not intend to spend any more money than had already been spent. Ottesen further testified that Cushman confessed that the Twin Elephant wouldn't [amount to] a popcorn cart. Ottesen's testimony was, by far, the most damaging testimony against Cushman. This is the only testimony that we have found that directly shows that Cushman believed the oil and gas projects were simply a sham. 51 Further, closing arguments reveal the importance of Ottesen's testimony against Cushman. The prosecutor relied heavily on Ottesen's testimony to set forth the case against Cushman. In response, Cushman's attorney argued that the only witness that they really base all their case on is--what was that guy's name, the one that talked so fast and--Ottesen. Although it is a close question, after a most careful reading of the record of this multi-week trial, we are not persuaded that the error was harmless beyond a reasonable doubt. 20 Therefore, the convictions of Zeigler, Hanks, Landerman, Holloman, and Cushman are vacated.