Opinion ID: 2588589
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: sufficiency of the evidence

Text: Tilton also contends there was insufficient evidence to sustain the verdict. Evidence is sufficient if, after reviewing it in the light most favorable to the State, any rational trier of fact could have found the essential elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. State v. Joy, 121 Wash.2d 333, 338, 851 P.2d 654 (1993) (citing State v. Green, 94 Wash.2d 216, 221, 616 P.2d 628 (1980)). By claiming the evidence is insufficient, the defendant admits the truth of the State's evidence and all inferences that can reasonably be drawn from it. State v. Salinas, 119 Wash.2d 192, 201, 829 P.2d 1068 (1992). The only element of first degree child molestation at issue is sexual contact for the purpose of sexual gratification. There was evidence that Tilton was asleep. However, there is some testimony which would support an inference he was awake. Further, the court is entitled to draw some inference from J.L.'s testimony that Tilton grabbed J.L.'s private parts. Finally, although there are two versions of the statement, a detective who interviewed J.L. reported that Tilton said, don't talk to Heidi. RP at 503. Though the evidence is far from strong, the commissioner was entitled to believe the evidence against Tilton. Taking as true the State's evidence and drawing all reasonable inferences in the State's favor, the evidence supports the trial judge's conclusion that Tilton touched J.L.'s genitals through clothing, and then attempted to conceal the act. Therefore, we are unable to reverse the conviction on the basis of insufficient evidence. We do, however, find that the absence of Tilton's trial testimony and the inability to adequately reconstruct the record, prejudiced Tilton's appellate review.