Opinion ID: 1842828
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Scope of and Standards for Review.

Text: A motion for judgment of acquittal is a means for challenging the sufficiency of the evidence to sustain a conviction.... State v. Allen, 304 N.W.2d 203, 206 (Iowa 1981). We review a sufficiency-of-the-evidence ruling for correction of errors of law. State v. Thomas, 561 N.W.2d 37, 39 (Iowa 1997). If the verdict is supported by substantial evidence, we will uphold a finding of guilt. State v. Pace, 602 N.W.2d 764, 768 (Iowa 1999). `Substantial evidence' is that upon which a rational trier of fact could find the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Id. In conducting our review, we consider all the evidence, that which detracts from the verdict, as well as that supporting the verdict. Id. We view the evidence in the light most favorable to the State. Id.