Opinion ID: 900331
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: sufficiency of the evidence

Text: [¶ 20.] When reviewing the sufficiency of the evidence, we are required to view it in a light most favorable to the jury's verdict. State v. Hage, 532 N.W.2d 406, 410 (S.D. 1995); State v. Sondreal, 459 N.W.2d 435, 438 (S.D.1990). It is well settled that in determining the sufficiency of evidence on appeal, the question presented is whether or not there is evidence in the record which, if believed by the jury, is sufficient to sustain a finding of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In making such a determination, this court will accept that evidence, and the most favorable inferences that can be fairly drawn therefrom, which will support the verdict. State v. Hart, 1996 SD 17, ¶ 8, 544 N.W.2d 206, 208; State v. Huettl, 379 N.W.2d 298, 301 (S.D.1985). See also State v. Sprik, 520 N.W.2d 595, 600 (S.D.1994); State v. Davi, 504 N.W.2d 844, 856 (S.D.1993); State v. Sitting Crow, 428 N.W.2d 268, 270 (S.D. 1988); Grey Owl, 316 N.W.2d at 801. [¶ 21.] A jury's function is to resolve conflicts in the evidence, weigh credibility, and sort out the truth. Jenner v. Leapley, 521 N.W.2d 422, 432 (S.D.1994). Viewed in a light most favorable to the jury's verdict, the evidence confirmed that Pellegrino had earlier threatened to shoot McKee, he was angry with McKee, and further, on the day of the homicide, Pellegrino had taken the gun out of his bedroom to make sure it worked. Contrary to Pellegrino's contention, there has been no showing that the verdict was entered in disregard of the evidence. After considering the entire record, we are convinced the evidence was sufficient to sustain the verdict.