Opinion ID: 2613220
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Admissibility of Prior Statement

Text: Spencer next argues that the trial court erred in admitting his prior statement that he wanted to stab and burn his wife. He argues that this statement should have been excluded because Rule 404(b), Ariz. R.Evid., prohibits the use of evidence of other crimes, wrongs or acts to prove character and action in conformity with that character. But the evidence was not offered to prove Spencer's bad character. It was offered to prove identity, plan and premeditation, purposes which expressly support the admission of other crimes evidence under Rule 404(b). Nevertheless, Spencer claims that the evidence should have been excluded pursuant to Rule 403, Ariz.R.Evid., because its prejudicial effect outweighed its probative value. Rule 403 weighing is best left to the trial court and, absent an abuse of discretion, will not be disturbed on appeal. State v. Robles, 135 Ariz. 92, 95, 659 P.2d 645, 648 (1983). Here, the statements were clearly relevant to prove matters at issue in the case and the jury was given a general instruction regarding what can properly be proved with evidence of prior bad acts under Rule 404(b). There was no abuse of discretion.