Opinion ID: 2624953
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Failure to Question Linda Evans Regarding Her Prior Written Statement

Text: [¶ 45] Appellant contends that his defense counsel was ineffective in not cross-examining witness Linda Evans regarding her prior written statement. In particular, appellant claims that Linda Evans testified at trial to her observations of appellant at the scene of the collision (that appellant appeared to be intoxicated, that she smelled alcohol on appellant's breath, and that appellant's eyes were bloodshot), but allegedly did not include this information in a prior written statement. Appellant argues only that no sound trial strategy could support defense counsel's failure to cross-examine Linda Evans and expose this inconsistency. [¶ 46] Linda Evans' omission of such information from her written statement does not necessarily render her later testimony inconsistent, but might have been utilized in impeaching her recollection or for other impeachment purposes. Appellant presents no cogent argument or pertinent authority as to how this perceived deficiency prejudiced him, and appellant has therefore failed to meet his burden on the issue. [11]