Opinion ID: 1298321
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Defendant's association with Anthony Sarivola

Text: Defendant next asserts reversible error in allowing evidence to be admitted of defendant's association with Anthony Sarivola. The defendant argues that such evidence is prejudicial because of Sarivola's connection with organized crime in New York. The state maintains that such evidence was necessary to establish why Sarivola was in prison and the circumstances under which defendant came to make his confession. We agree with the State. Initially, we note that evidence of Sarivola's organized crime connections was relevant evidence admissible under Rule 401 to show why defendant may have confessed to Sarivola to seek protection from the rest of the inmate population. Moreover, Sarivola's crime connection was relevant to show why defendant would confess to someone of Sarivola's ilk in seeking protection. Although Sarivola's organized crime connections may be relevant, they may still be excluded if its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice. Rule 403, Ariz.R.Evid., State v. Hensley, 142 Ariz. 598, 602, 691 P.2d 689, 693 (1984). In determining the relevancy and admissibility of evidence, the trial judge is invested with considerable discretion. Id. at 602, 691 P.2d at 693. Such discretion will not be disturbed on appeal unless clearly abused. Id. In the instant case, the defendant has failed to show how evidence of Sarivola's organized crime connections would cause prejudice to defendant. That Sarivola was involved with organized crime reflected on Sarivola's character, not the defendant's character. In so far as Sarivola testified as to defendant's confession, Sarivola's organized crime connection could serve to impeach Sarivola and may have, in fact, been beneficial to defendant rather than prejudicial. We believe the probative value of this evidence outweighs any prejudicial effect. Rule 403, Ariz.R.Evid. 17A A.R.S. We find no error.