Opinion ID: 504457
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Improper Cross-Examination of Alibi Witness

Text: 82 Pamela Ellis appeared as an alibi witness for defendant Lumbar. In the course of her testimony, she described a party at Audrey Lumbar's residence that both Ms. Ellis and the defendant had attended. On cross-examination the prosecutor asked Ms. Ellis whether anyone at this party had jobs. The prosecutor later asked if Audrey Lumbar had a job. 83 This cross-examination appears to have been directed at determining how well Ellis knew the individuals at the party. Defendant Lumbar contends that the questions were improper cross-examination calculated to impeach the other alibi witnesses who attended the party. The permissible extent of cross-examination is a matter within the broad discretion of the district court. United States v. Schepp, 746 F.2d 406, 410 (8th Cir.1984). We find no abuse of discretion here. 84