Court Opinion

ID: 9739519
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-26 20:16:51.54014+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T07:24:12.807778
License: Public Domain

CHEZEM, Judge,
dissenting.
I concur on the first issue of sufficiency of evidence. The evidence was sufficient to support Johnson's conviction.
I respectfully dissent on the second issue. I do not think the trial court erred in admitting testimony about Johnson's prior acts of violence toward Stokes.
A pattern of on going abusive behavior toward a wife or girlfriend over a long period of time is no less probative than the same behavior in a matter of a few days. The nexus between the prior acts and the one charged is the continuing relationship between Johnson and Stokes and Johnson's determination to manipulate and to remain in control of that relationship. This pattern goes to show intent. If such evidence is prejudicial to the defendant, its probative value out weights the prejudice.
I would affirm the trial court.