SNODGRASS v. HICKS
Filing
31
ORDER denying 22 Amended Petition and dismissing case with prejudice, with instructions to the Clerk. Signed by Judge Timothy J. Corrigan on 8/30/2018. (ACT)
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
JACKSONVILLE DIVISION
DANIEL SNODGRASS,
Petitioner,
v.
Case No. 3:15-cv-754-J-32PDB
SECRETARY, FLORIDA
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS,
et al.,
Respondents.
________________________________
ORDER
I.
Status
Petitioner Daniel Snodgrass, an inmate of the Florida penal system, initiated
this action by filing a pro se Petition Under 28 U.S.C. § 2254 for Writ of Habeas Corpus
by a Person in State Custody (Doc. 1.) on April 22, 2015.1 Snodgrass is proceeding on
an Amended Petition (Doc. 22.) with exhibits (Doc. 23), filed on September 7, 2016.
Snodgrass challenges a 2012 state court (Putnam County, Florida) judgment of
conviction for sexual battery for which he is currently incarcerated for a term of life.
The Amended Petition raises sixteen grounds for relief. See Doc. 22 at 5-25.2
Respondents filed a Response to the Amended Petition. See Response to Petition (Doc.
25; Resp.) with exhibits (Resp. Ex.). Snodgrass filed a pro se Reply. See Re: To (the
See Houston v. Lack, 487 U.S. 266, 276 (1988) (mailbox rule).
For purposes of reference, the Court will cite the page number of the Amended
Petition assigned by the electronic docketing system.
1
2
Attorney General) Response to My Petition and (Order to Show Cause). (Doc. 30;
Reply). This case is ripe for review.
II.
Relevant Procedural History
On April 27, 2012, a jury convicted Snodgrass of sexual battery (count one) and
two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation (counts two and three). Resp. Ex. B at
552-54. That same day, the circuit court sentenced Snodgrass to incarceration for a
term of life as to each count. Id. at 578-80. The Fifth District Court of Appeal (Fifth
DCA) per curiam affirmed Snodgrass’ convictions and sentences on January 29, 2013,
without a written opinion. Resp. Ex. J. The Mandate was issued on February 22, 2013.
Resp. Ex. K.
On August 8, 2013, Snodgrass filed a pro se Motion for Postconviction Relief
pursuant to Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.850. Resp. Ex. L. The circuit court
denied the Rule 3.850 Motion on October 17, 2013. Resp. Ex. M. The Fifth DCA per
curiam affirmed the circuit court’s denial of the Rule 3.850 Motion on April 29, 2014,
without a written opinion. Resp. Ex. P. The Mandate was issued on June 16, 2014.
Resp. Ex. S.
III.
One-Year Limitation Period
This action is timely filed within the one-year limitations period. See 28 U.S.C.
§ 2244(d).
2
IV.
Governing Legal Principles
A. Standard Under AEDPA
The Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996 (AEDPA) governs a
state prisoner’s federal habeas corpus petition. See Ledford v. Warden, Ga. Diagnostic
& Classification Prison, 818 F.3d 600, 642 (11th Cir. 2016), cert. denied, 137 S. Ct.
1432 (2017). “‘The purpose of AEDPA is to ensure that federal habeas relief functions
as a guard against extreme malfunctions in the state criminal justice systems, and not
as a means of error correction.’” Id. (quoting Greene v. Fisher, 565 U.S. 34, 38 (2011)).
The first task of the federal habeas court is to identify the last state court
decision, if any, that adjudicated the petitioner’s claims on the merits. See Marshall v.
Sec’y, Fla. Dep’t of Corr., 828 F.3d 1277, 1285 (11th Cir. 2016). The state court need
not issue an opinion explaining its rationale in order for the state court’s decision to
qualify as an adjudication on the merits. See Harrington v. Richter, 562 U.S. 86, 100
(2011). Where the state court’s adjudication on the merits is unaccompanied by an
explanation,
the federal court should “look through” the unexplained
decision to the last related state-court decision that does
provide a relevant rationale. It should then presume that
the unexplained decision adopted the same reasoning. But
the State may rebut the presumption by showing that the
unexplained affirmance relied or most likely did rely on
different grounds than the lower state court’s decision, such
as alternative grounds for affirmance that were briefed or
argued to the state supreme court or obvious in the record
it reviewed.
Wilson v. Sellers, 138 S. Ct. 1188, 1192 (2018).
3
When a state court has adjudicated a petitioner’s claims on the merits, a federal
court cannot grant habeas relief unless the state court’s adjudication of the claim was
“contrary to, or involved an unreasonable application of, clearly established Federal
law, as determined by the Supreme Court of the United States,” or “was based on an
unreasonable determination of the facts in light of the evidence presented in the State
court proceeding,” 28 U.S.C. § 2254(d)(1), (2). A state court’s factual findings are
“presumed to be correct” unless rebutted “by clear and convincing evidence.” Id. §
2254(e)(1).
AEDPA “imposes a highly deferential standard for
evaluating state court rulings” and “demands that statecourt decisions be given the benefit of the doubt.” Renico v.
Lett, 559 U.S. 766, 773 (2010) (internal quotation marks
omitted). “A state court’s determination that a claim lacks
merit precludes federal habeas relief so long as fairminded
jurists could disagree on the correctness of the state court’s
decision.” Harrington v. Richter, 562 U.S. 86, 101 (2011)
(internal quotation marks omitted). “It bears repeating that
even a strong case for relief does not mean the state court’s
contrary conclusion was unreasonable.” Id. [at 102] (citing
Lockyer v. Andrade, 538 U.S. 63, 75 (2003)). The Supreme
Court has repeatedly instructed lower federal courts that an
unreasonable application of law requires more than mere
error or even clear error. See, e.g., Mitchell v. Esparza, 540
U.S. 12, 18 (2003); Lockyer, 538 U.S. at 75 (“The gloss of
clear error fails to give proper deference to state courts by
conflating error (even clear error) with unreasonableness.”);
Williams v. Taylor, 529 U.S. 362, 410 (2000) (“[A]n
unreasonable application of federal law is different from an
incorrect application of federal law.”).
Bishop v. Warden, GDCP, 726 F.3d 1243, 1253-54 (11th Cir. 2013) (internal citations
modified).
4
B. Exhaustion and Procedural Default
There are prerequisites to federal habeas review. Before bringing a § 2254
habeas action in federal court, a petitioner must exhaust all state court remedies that
are available for challenging his state conviction. See 28 U.S.C. § 2254(b)(1)(A). To
exhaust state remedies, the petitioner must “fairly present[]” every issue raised in his
federal petition to the state’s highest court, either on direct appeal or on collateral
review. Castille v. Peoples, 489 U.S. 346, 351 (1989) (emphasis omitted). Thus, to
properly exhaust a claim, “state prisoners must give the state courts one full
opportunity to resolve any constitutional issues by invoking one complete round of the
State’s established appellate review process.” O’Sullivan v. Boerckel, 526 U.S. 838, 845
(1999).
In addressing exhaustion, the United States Supreme Court explained:
Before seeking a federal writ of habeas corpus, a state
prisoner must exhaust available state remedies, 28 U.S.C. §
2254(b)(1), thereby giving the State the “‘“opportunity to
pass upon and correct” alleged violations of its prisoners’
federal rights.’” Duncan v. Henry, 513 U.S. 364, 365, 115 S.
Ct. 887, 130 L.Ed.2d 865 (1995) (per curiam) (quoting Picard
v. Connor, 404 U.S. 270, 275, 92 S. Ct. 509, 30 L.Ed.2d 438
(1971)). To provide the State with the necessary
“opportunity,” the prisoner must “fairly present” his claim
in each appropriate state court (including a state supreme
court with powers of discretionary review), thereby alerting
that court to the federal nature of the claim. Duncan, supra,
at 365-366, 115 S. Ct. 887; O’Sullivan v. Boerckel, 526 U.S.
838, 845, 119 S. Ct. 1728, 144 L.Ed.2d 1 (1999).
Baldwin v. Reese, 541 U.S. 27, 29 (2004).
A state prisoner’s failure to properly exhaust available state remedies results
in a procedural default which raises a potential bar to federal habeas review. The
5
United States Supreme Court has explained the doctrine of procedural default as
follows:
Federal habeas courts reviewing the constitutionality of a
state prisoner’s conviction and sentence are guided by rules
designed to ensure that state-court judgments are accorded
the finality and respect necessary to preserve the integrity
of legal proceedings within our system of federalism. These
rules include the doctrine of procedural default, under
which a federal court will not review the merits of claims,
including constitutional claims, that a state court declined
to hear because the prisoner failed to abide by a state
procedural rule. See, e.g., Coleman,[3] supra, at 747–748,
111 S. Ct. 2546; Sykes,[4] supra, at 84–85, 97 S. Ct. 2497. A
state court’s invocation of a procedural rule to deny a
prisoner’s claims precludes federal review of the claims if,
among other requisites, the state procedural rule is a
nonfederal ground adequate to support the judgment and
the rule is firmly established and consistently followed. See,
e.g., Walker v. Martin, 562 U.S. --, --, 131 S. Ct. 1120, 1127–
1128, 179 L.Ed.2d 62 (2011); Beard v. Kindler, 558 U.S. --, -, 130 S. Ct. 612, 617–618, 175 L.Ed.2d 417 (2009). The
doctrine barring procedurally defaulted claims from being
heard is not without exceptions. A prisoner may obtain
federal review of a defaulted claim by showing cause for the
default and prejudice from a violation of federal law. See
Coleman, 501 U.S., at 750, 111 S. Ct. 2546.
Martinez v. Ryan, 566 U.S. 1, 9-10 (2012). Thus, procedural defaults may be excused
under certain circumstances. Notwithstanding that a claim has been procedurally
defaulted, a federal court may still consider the claim if a state habeas petitioner can
show either (1) cause for and actual prejudice from the default; or (2) a fundamental
miscarriage of justice. Ward v. Hall, 592 F.3d 1144, 1157 (11th Cir. 2010). In order for
a petitioner to establish cause and prejudice,
3
4
Coleman v. Thompson, 501 U.S. 722 (1991).
Wainwright v. Sykes, 433 U.S. 72 (1977).
6
the procedural default “must result from some objective
factor external to the defense that prevented [him] from
raising the claim and which cannot be fairly attributable to
his own conduct.” McCoy v. Newsome, 953 F.2d 1252, 1258
(11th Cir. 1992) (quoting Carrier, 477 U.S. at 488, 106 S. Ct.
2639).[5] Under the prejudice prong, [a petitioner] must
show that “the errors at trial actually and substantially
disadvantaged his defense so that he was denied
fundamental fairness.” Id. at 1261 (quoting Carrier, 477
U.S. at 494, 106 S. Ct. 2639).
Wright v. Hopper, 169 F.3d 695, 706 (11th Cir. 1999).
In the absence of a showing of cause and prejudice, a petitioner may receive
consideration on the merits of a procedurally defaulted claim if the petitioner can
establish that a fundamental miscarriage of justice, the continued incarceration of one
who is actually innocent, otherwise would result. The Eleventh Circuit has explained:
[I]f a petitioner cannot show cause and prejudice, there
remains yet another avenue for him to receive consideration
on the merits of his procedurally defaulted claim. “[I]n an
extraordinary case, where a constitutional violation has
probably resulted in the conviction of one who is actually
innocent, a federal habeas court may grant the writ even in
the absence of a showing of cause for the procedural
default.” Carrier, 477 U.S. at 496, 106 S. Ct. at 2649. “This
exception is exceedingly narrow in scope,” however, and
requires proof of actual innocence, not just legal innocence.
Johnson v. Alabama, 256 F.3d 1156, 1171 (11th Cir. 2001).
Ward, 592 F.3d at 1157. “To meet this standard, a petitioner must ‘show that it is more
likely than not that no reasonable juror would have convicted him’ of the underlying
offense.” Johnson v. Alabama, 256 F.3d 1156, 1171 (11th Cir. 2001) (quoting Schlup v.
Delo, 513 U.S. 298, 327 (1995)). Additionally, “‘[t]o be credible,’ a claim of actual
5
Murray v. Carrier, 477 U.S. 478 (1986).
7
innocence must be based on reliable evidence not presented at trial.” Calderon v.
Thompson, 523 U.S. 538, 559 (1998) (quoting Schlup, 513 U.S. at 324). With the rarity
of such evidence, in most cases, allegations of actual innocence are ultimately
summarily rejected. Schlup, 513 U.S. at 324.
V.
Analysis
A. Grounds One - Six – Ineffective Assistance of Standby Counsel
In Grounds One through Six, Snodgrass alleges his standby counsel at trial was
ineffective for: (1) failing to ask 470 of the 500 questions Snodgrass directed standby
counsel to ask during the cross-examination of the victim; (2) being biased because
Snodgrass wanted to proceed pro se and failing to ask 640 questions; (3) failing to
introduce and publish evidence; (4) failing to perform unicycle demonstrations; (5)
failing to impeach the victim; and (6) the cumulative error of standby counsel
prejudiced him. Doc. 22 at 5-9, 14.
Respondents concede that Snodgrass exhausted these claims. Doc. 25 at 12-13.
However, Respondents claim Snodgrass fails to show that the state court’s
adjudication of these claims was contrary to or an unreasonable application of
established federal law because there is no constitutional right to the effective
assistance of standby counsel. Id. at 15-18.
Snodgrass raised substantially similar claims of ineffective assistance of
standby counsel in his Rule 3.850 Motion. Resp. Ex. L at 3-15. The circuit court denied
the claim, stating the following:
On Ground One, Defendant claims that his Standby
Counsel provided ineffective assistance of counsel. Among
8
other complaints about Standby Counsel, Defendant
protests that Standby Counsel did not ask all of the 500
questions Defendant drafted, and did not ask them in order
so as to catch the witness (BW) in a lie.
In Barnes v. State, 2013 Fla. LEXIS 1313; 38 Fla. L.
Weekly S 490, (Fla. June, [sic] 27, 2013) citing with approval
to Behr v. Bell, 665 So. 2d 1055, 1056-57 (Fla. 1996), the
Court held that a Defendant who represents himself has the
entire responsibility for his own defense, even if he has
standby counsel. Such a Defendant “cannot thereafter
complain that the quality of his defense was a denial of
‘effective assistance of counsel.’” Id. at 1056-57 (quoting
Faretta v. California, 422 U.S. 806 (1975)).
In the case at bar, on January 13, 2012, a Faretta
hearing was held. At [the] hearing[,] Defendant was
informed by the Court that “if you are convicted, you cannot
claim on appeal that your own lack of knowledge or skills
constitutes a basis for a new trial. In other words, you
cannot claim that you received ineffective assistance of
counsel if you are representing yourself.”
In response, Defendant stated “Very aware of that
Your Honor.” Ground One is denied.
Resp. Ex. M at 1-2 (record citations omitted). The Fifth DCA per curiam affirmed the
circuit court’s denial of these claims without a written opinion. Resp. Exs. P; S.
To the extent that the Fifth DCA affirmed the circuit court’s denial on the
merits,6 the Court will address these claims in accordance with the deferential
standard for federal court review of state court adjudications. After a review of the
record and the applicable law, the Court concludes that the state court’s adjudication
of these claims was not contrary to clearly established federal law, did not involve an
In looking through the appellate court’s per curiam affirmance to the circuit
court’s “relevant rationale,” the Court presumes that the appellate court “adopted the
same reasoning.” Wilson, 138 S. Ct. at 1194.
9
6
unreasonable application of clearly established federal law, and was not based on an
unreasonable determination of the facts in light of the evidence presented in the state
court proceedings. Thus, Snodgrass is not entitled to relief on the basis of these claims.
Nevertheless, even if the state court’s adjudication of these claims is not entitled
to deference, the claims are without merit. A defendant has a Sixth Amendment right
to self-representation, but once proceeding pro se “a defendant . . . cannot thereafter
complain that the quality of his own defense amounted to a denial of ‘effective
assistance of counsel.’” Faretta, 422 U.S. at 834 n.46. In Faretta, the Supreme Court
noted trial courts can appoint standby counsel to assist a pro se defendant. Id.
However, there is no constitutional right to standby counsel. See McKaskie v. Wiggins,
465 U.S. 168, 183 (1984) (noting “Faretta does not require a trial judge to permit
‘hybrid’ representation.”). If there is no constitutional right to standby counsel, a
petitioner cannot claim standby counsel was ineffective. See United States v. Windsor,
981 F.2d 943, 947 (7th Cir. 1992) (noting “[t]his court knows of no constitutional right
to effective assistance of standby counsel.”); Behr, 665 So. 2d at 1056-57 (quoting
Faretta, 422 U.S. at 835 n.46) (holding “a defendant who represents himself has the
entire responsibility for his own defense, even if he has standby counsel. Such a
defendant cannot thereafter complain that the quality of his defense was a denial of
‘effective assistance of counsel.’”); see generally Coleman, 501 U.S. at 752-53 (noting
there is no constitutional right to postconviction counsel in state proceedings;
therefore, “a petitioner cannot claim constitutionally ineffective assistance of counsel
in such proceedings.”); Wainwright v. Torna, 455 U.S. 586, 587-88 (1982) (holding that
10
“[s]ince respondent had no constitutional right to counsel [to pursue a discretionary
state appeal], he could not be deprived of the effective assistance of counsel.”).
Moreover, “[a] defendant does not have a constitutional right to choreograph
special appearances by [standby] counsel.” McKaskle, 465 U.S. at 183. Therefore,
“[o]nce a pro se defendant invites or agrees to any substantial participation by
[standby] counsel, subsequent appearances by [standby] counsel must be presumed to
be with the defendant's acquiescence, at least until the defendant expressly and
unambiguously renews his request that standby counsel be silenced.” Id.; see also
Simpson v. Battaglia, 458 F.3d 585, 597 (7th Cir. 2006) (“[T]he inadequacy of standby
counsel’s performance, without the defendant’s relinquishment of his Faretta right,
cannot give rise to an ineffective assistance of counsel claim under the Sixth
Amendment.”); United States. v. Morrison, 153 F.3d 34, 55 (2d Cir. 1998) (finding no
constitutional claim for ineffectiveness of standby counsel where defendant
maintained control over his own defense).
On January 13, 2012, following a Faretta hearing, the circuit court allowed
Snodgrass to represent himself and appointed standby counsel. Resp. Exs. B at 228,
234, 238; C. On March 16, 2012, the state moved to have standby counsel conduct the
cross-examination of the victim to prevent potential trauma to the victim if Snodgrass
questioned her himself. Resp. Ex. B at 257. While initially Snodgrass objected to the
request, see id. at 270-72, he ultimately withdrew that objection and acquiesced to
standby counsel conducting the cross-examination. Resp. Exs. B at 278; D at 14-15. In
granting the state’s request the circuit court acknowledged that Snodgrass wished to
11
remain pro se and clarified the parameters of standby counsel’s participation.
Specifically, the circuit court stated:
The Defendant is to meet with stand-by counsel prior to
court proceedings where B.W. will be cross examined and
prepare premilitary questions for stand-by counsel to ask
B.W. The Defendant has the right to add or alter questions
for stand-by counsel to ask B.W. as her testimony is elicited.
Resp. Ex. B at 278.
Prior to the cross-examination of the victim, the Court discussed with the jury
that standby counsel would cross-examine the victim but explained that standby
counsel was “just going to be the mouthpiece,” and that “these questions were prepared
by Mr. Snodgrass,” a fact acknowledged by standby counsel during cross-examination.
Resp. Ex. A at 149-50, 158, 204. Throughout the cross-examination, Snodgrass
handled objections in front of and outside the presence of the jury. Id. at 158-60, 17484, 191-92, 200-08, 213-14, 217-18. Notably, Snodgrass had the opportunity to talk
with standby counsel during the cross-examination. Id. at 190, 194-97. During one
such opportunity, Snodgrass agreed to reduce the amount of questions. Id. at 196-97.
At the conclusion of cross-examination, Snodgrass agreed that he had no more
questions for the victim at that time, with the caveat that he wanted to reserve the
right to recall the witness should he need to ask more questions. Id. at 219. Following
the state’s re-direct examination, Snodgrass agreed that the victim should be released
for the day, but subject to recall. Id. at 225. Snodgrass never recalled the victim as a
witness.
12
In this case, Snodgrass knowingly and voluntarily requested to proceed pro se.
The record reflects Snodgrass agreed to standby counsel’s participation and did not
relinquish his Faretta rights, maintaining control over his own defense. As such,
Snodgrass cannot complain that standby counsel was ineffective under the Sixth
Amendment. McKaskle, 465 U.S. at 183; Battaglia, 458 F.3d at 597; Morrison, 153
F.3d at 55. Accordingly, for the above stated reasons, Grounds One through Six are
denied.
B. Ground Seven
Snodgrass avers that he was falsely arrested because the charging documents
included false allegations. Doc. 22 at 15.
Respondents claim Snodgrass never raised this claim with the state court;
therefore, they contend that it is unexhausted and procedurally defaulted. Doc. 25 at
13. In reviewing the record, the Court finds this claim is unexhausted because
Snodgrass never presented it to the state court. Snodgrass has not alleged any cause
to excuse this procedural default. However, in his Reply, Snodgrass appears to assert
a claim of actual innocence/miscarriage of justice as a gateway for consideration of this
procedurally defaulted claim. Doc. 30 at 2, 19-23; Carrier, 477 U.S. at 496. Specifically,
Snodgrass claims he is actually innocent because witnesses lied, the prosecution
“railroaded” him, and his ex-wife and the victim’s mother conspired against him to
fabricate these charges. Doc. 30.
As noted above, “‘[t]o be credible,’ a claim of actual innocence must be based on
reliable evidence not presented at trial.” Calderon, 523 U.S. at 559. Snodgrass has
13
presented no such reliable evidence to the Court. Instead, Snodgrass has either
attempted to provide new interpretations of existing evidence or to discuss collateral
evidence not presented at trial that would allegedly impeach the credibility of
witnesses or contradict certain testimony. Doc. 30 at 2-23. However, providing
different interpretations of evidence presented at trial is not sufficient to demonstrate
actual innocence. See Claritt v. Kemp, 336 F. App’x 869, 871 (11th Cir. 2009) (noting
Clarrit’s new interpretation of existing evidence was insufficient to show actual
innocence to overcome a procedural default). Likewise, an actual innocence claim
cannot be based on new defense theories or impeachment evidence not directly related
to the crime. See Johnson, 256 F.3d at 1172 (holding a new defense theory does not
establish actual innocence); Sawyer v. Whitley, 505 U.S. 333, 349 (1992) (holding
“[t]his sort of latter-day evidence brought forward to impeach a prosecution witness
will seldom, if ever, make a clear and convincing showing that no reasonable juror
would have believed the heart of Shano's account of petitioner's actions.”); Calderon,
523 U.S. at 563 (impeachment evidence a step removed from evidence relating to the
actual crime does not form the basis for an actual innocence claim).
To the extent Snodgrass contends his ex-wife and the victim’s mother conspired
against him to force the victim to fabricate her story, he has failed to present any
corroborating evidence outside of his own strained interpretation of the facts. Indeed,
Snodgrass attempted to raise this same argument at trial. Resp. Ex. A at 666-74, 96269. However, the circuit court excluded any testimony about such a conspiracy,
reasoning that it was entirely conjecture without any evidence supporting it. Resp. Ex.
14
A at 967-68. Likewise, here, Snodgrass has presented no evidence to the Court that
his ex-wife and the victim’s mother even knew each other, let alone evidence that they
forced the victim to fabricate sexual abuse claims. As such, Snodgrass’ conspiracy
theory does not constitute new reliable evidence to establish his actual innocence.
Accordingly, Snodgrass has failed to overcome the procedural default here.
Nevertheless, assuming this claim is exhausted and properly presented to the
Court, it is without merit. “The sufficiency of a state indictment or information is not
properly the subject of federal habeas corpus relief unless the indictment or
information is so deficient that the convicting court is deprived of jurisdiction.”
DeBenedictis v. Wainwright, 674 F.2d 841, 842-43 (11th Cir. 1982). The Eleventh
Circuit has explained:
“An indictment is considered legally sufficient if it: (1)
presents the essential elements of the charged offense, (2)
notifies the accused of the charges to be defended against,
and (3) enables the accused to rely upon a judgment under
the indictment as a bar against double jeopardy for any
subsequent prosecution for the same offense.” United States
v. Jordan, 582 F.3d 1239, 1245 (11th Cir.2009) (citation and
quotations omitted). “In determining whether an
indictment is sufficient, we read it as a whole and give it a
‘common sense construction.’ ” Id. (citing United States v.
Gold, 743 F.2d 800, 813 (11th Cir.1984) and United States
v. Markham, 537 F.2d 187, 192 (5th Cir.1976)). “In other
words, the indictment's ‘validity is to be determined by
practical, not technical, considerations.’ ” Jordan, 582 F.3d
at 1245 (citing Gold, 743 F.2d at 812).
United States v. Schmitz, 634 F.3d 1247, 1259-60 (11th Cir. 2011) (footnote omitted).
Here, Snodgrass has not alleged the circuit court lacked jurisdiction; therefore,
this claim is not cognizable. See DeBenedictis, 674 F.2d at 842-43. Even if Ground
15
Seven could be liberally construed as a federal constitutional challenge, it would fail
because the charging documents clearly and correctly set forth the essential elements
of each count, named Snodgrass as the accused, described the date and location of the
offenses, and stated the statutory basis for the offenses. Resp. Ex. B at 10, 69, 296-97.
Accordingly, the charging documents were legally sufficient to place Snodgrass on
notice and invoke the circuit court’s jurisdiction. See Schmitz, 634 F.3d at 1259-60.
Moreover, to the extent Snodgrass challenges the sufficiency of the factual allegations
in the Information, the proper venue for such a challenge would be at trial. Indeed,
Snodgrass had his opportunity to challenge the evidence at trial, but the jury found it
unavailing. Ground Seven is therefore without merit.
C. Ground Eight
Snodgrass claims that his Fourth Amendment rights were violated when the
police illegally searched and seized items from his home. Doc. 22 at 15-16. According
to Snodgrass, the search warrant was based on allegedly false information provided
by the victim. Id.
Respondents claim Snodgrass never raised this claim with the state court;
therefore, they contend that it is unexhausted and procedurally defaulted. Doc. 25 at
13. In reviewing the record, the Court finds this claim is unexhausted and now
procedurally defaulted because Snodgrass never presented it to the state court.
Snodgrass has not alleged any cause to excuse this procedural default. Moreover, as
explained above, Snodgrass’ claim of actual innocence is not sufficient to overcome this
procedural default.
16
Nevertheless, Snodgrass is still not entitled to federal habeas relief on this
claim. The United States Supreme Court held that “where the State has provided an
opportunity for full and fair litigation of a Fourth Amendment claim, a state prisoner
may not be granted federal habeas corpus relief on the ground that evidence obtained
in an unconstitutional search or seizure was introduced at his trial.” Stone v. Powell,
428 U.S. 465, 494 (1976). The Fifth Circuit has explained that:
An “opportunity for full and fair litigation” means just that:
an opportunity. If a state provides the processes whereby a
defendant can obtain full and fair litigation of a fourth
amendment claim, Stone v. Powell bars federal habeas
corpus consideration of that claim whether or not the
defendant employs those processes.
Caver v. State of Ala., 577 F.2d 1188, 1192 (5th Cir. 1978); see also Lawhorn v. Allen,
519 F.3d 1272, 1288 (11th Cir. 2008).
Florida provides an opportunity for the full and fair litigation of Fourth
Amendment claims, see Fla. R. Crim. P. 3.190(g), though Snodgrass never availed
himself of this opportunity. Resp. Ex. B. As such, the Court cannot review his Fourth
Amendment claim. See Stone, 428 U.S. at 494; Carver, 577 F.2d at 1192. Accordingly,
Snodgrass is not entitled to federal habeas relief on Ground Eight.
D. Ground Nine
Snodgrass asserts that the state withheld the following evidence: (1) the
Williams7 Rule hearing transcripts; (2) two police reports; (3) the victim’s rapid plasma
reagin (RPR) test results; (4) all six foster parents’ names and addresses; (5) a copy of
7
Williams v. State, 110 So. 2d 654 (Fla. 1959).
17
a tape recording used at trial; (6) the jury selection transcripts; (7) the “priors” of the
victim and her sister; (8) pictures he took of the victim and her sister; and (9) a compact
disc (CD) of the mother’s interview. Doc. 22 at 16-17.
Respondents contend Ground Nine was not properly presented in state court;
thus, the Court is precluded from considering it on the merits. Doc. 25 at 13.
i.
Sub-claims (2), (3), and (7)
Snodgrass raised sub-claims two, three, and seven in ground four of his Rule
3.850 Motion. Resp. Ex. L at 34-36. In denying these claims, the circuit court ruled
that “Defendant makes an unsubstantiated assertion which also could or should have
been raised on direct appeal.” Resp. Ex. M at 2-3. The Fifth DCA per curiam affirmed
the denial of these claims without a written opinion. Resp. Exs. P; S.
A procedural default may result from non-compliance with state procedural
requirements. Coleman, 501 U.S. at 729-30. Federal courts are barred from reaching
the merits of a state prisoner's federal habeas claim where the petitioner has failed to
comply with an independent and adequate state procedural rule. Sykes, 433 U.S. at
85-86. The procedural bar imposed in Snodgrass’ case is firmly established and
regularly followed in the Florida courts. See Fla. R. Crim. P. 3.850(c); see also
Teffeteller v. State, 734 So. 2d 1009, 1016 (Fla. 1999) (holding substantive claims
procedurally barred because they could have been raised on direct appeal); Smith v.
State, 445 So. 2d 323, 325 (Fla. 1983) (“Issues which either were or could have been
litigated at trial and upon direct appeal are not cognizable through collateral attack.”).
Thus, the Court finds these sub-claims are procedurally defaulted. See Coleman, 501
18
U.S. at 729-30. Snodgrass has failed to show cause or prejudice to overcome this
procedural default. Likewise, as noted above, Snodgrass’ claim of actual innocence is
insufficient to excuse this procedural default. As such, the Court declines to consider
these sub-claims on the merits. Sykes, 433 U.S. at 85-86.
ii.
Sub-claims (1), (4), (5), (6), (8), and (9)
Regarding the remaining sub-claims; these claims are unexhausted because
Snodgrass never raised these issues with the state court. See Boerckel, 526 U.S. at
845. Snodgrass has failed to show cause or prejudice to overcome his failure to exhaust.
Moreover, as noted above, Snodgrass’ claim of actual innocence is not credible and will
not excuse his failure to exhaust these sub-claims.
Nevertheless, even if not procedurally defaulted, these sub-claims fail. Brady v.
Maryland, 373 U.S. 83 (1963) governs a state’s withholding of exculpatory evidence.
To establish a Brady claim, a petitioner must demonstrate: “(1) that the prosecution
suppressed evidence (2) that was favorable to the [petitioner] or exculpatory and (3)
that the evidence was material.” United States v. Blasco, 702 F.2d 1315, 1327 (11th
Cir. 1983) (citation omitted). Notably, “[t]he Brady mandate only applies to
information in the possession of the prosecutor or anyone under his authority that
defense counsel could not have obtained by exercising reasonable diligence through
other means.” United States v. Naranjo, 634 F.3d 1198, 1212 (11th Cir. 2011); see also
United States v. Griggs, 713 F.2d 672, 674 (11th Cir. 1983) (“Where defendants, prior
to trial, had within their knowledge the information by which they could have
ascertained the alleged Brady material, there is no suppression by the government.”).
19
Furthermore, “a Brady claim fails when it is only speculative that the materials at
issue would have led to exculpatory information.” Wright v. Sec’y Fla. Dep’t of Corr.
761 F.3d 1256, 1281 (11th Cir. 2014).
As to sub-claims one and six, transcripts of the Williams’ Rule hearing and of
jury selection do not constitute Brady material because it is not evidence, especially
evidence controlled exclusively by the state. Snodgrass was present during each
proceeding, and it was not the state’s responsibility to provide transcripts to
Snodgrass. Resp. Exs. A; B; D. Concerning sub-claim four, the name and addresses of
the victim’s foster parents would not have been relevant to the crimes at issue here as
the victim was put in foster care after the crimes occurred. Id. at 294. Moreover,
Snodgrass merely speculates material testimony could be derived from the victim’s
foster parents, but Brady claims cannot be premised on speculation. Doc. 22 at 16;
Wright, 761 F.3d at 1281.
Regarding sub-claim five, the record reflects the state did provide Snodgrass a
copy of the recorded statement. Resp. Ex. A at 1041. If Snodgrass wanted a transcript,
he could have obtained one with the use of reasonable diligence. See Naranjo, 634 F.3d
at 1212. Furthermore, these are recordings of Snodgrass; thus, he was aware of its
existence prior to trial. Resp. Ex. A at 1042-43. Therefore, this evidence was not
suppressed. See Griggs, 713 F.2d at 674.
Concerning sub-claim eight, Snodgrass admits he took the pictures; therefore,
he knew about their existence prior to trial and if he did not have them for the
preparation of his defense, the exercise of reasonable diligence would have enabled
20
him to possess them. Accordingly, there was no suppression of these photographs
under Brady. See Naranjo, 634 F.3d at 1212; Griggs, 713 F.2d at 674. Lastly, as to
sub-claim nine, the record reflects a CD of the mother’s interview was provided to
defense counsel prior to trial. Resp. Ex. B at 68, 88. Accordingly, this evidence was not
suppressed. Ground Nine is without merit.
E. Grounds Ten, Eleven, and Twelve
In Grounds Ten, Eleven, and Twelve, Snodgrass contends that the state
knowingly presented false testimony. Doc. 22 at 17-19. In Ground Ten, Snodgrass
asserts that the victim’s story changed six to seven times throughout various
interviews and depositions and she lied at least ninety times at trial. Id. Snodgrass
argues that the state knew of the discrepancies prior to trial, but still presented her
testimony. Id. In Ground Eleven, Snodgrass asserts that the victim’s sister lied about
Snodgrass molesting her, as evidenced by the state’s dismissal of a charge of lewd and
lascivious molestation of the victim’s sister. Id. at 17-18. In Ground Twelve, Snodgrass
claims that Detective Taylor lied several times in his depositions and at trial, lies that
Snodgrass claims he pointed out during Detective Taylor’s cross-examination. Id. at
18-19.
Respondents contend Snodgrass failed to properly present these claims in state
court, barring federal habeas review. Doc. 25 at 14.
Snodgrass raised Grounds Ten, Eleven, and Twelve in ground three of his Rule
3.850 Motion. Resp. Ex. L at 24-33. In addressing these claims, the circuit court found
that:
21
This is an unsubstantiated claim that is improper for a Rule
3.850 Motion. This is also a ground that could or should
have been raised on direct appeal. Ground Three is denied.
Resp. Ex. M at 2. The Fifth DCA per curiam affirmed the denial of these claims without
a written opinion. Resp. Exs. P; S.
A procedural default may result from non-compliance with state procedural
requirements. Coleman, 501 U.S. at 729-30. Federal courts are barred from reaching
the merits of a state prisoner's federal habeas claim where the petitioner has failed to
comply with an independent and adequate state procedural rule. Sykes, 433 U.S. at
85-86. The procedural bar imposed in Snodgrass’ case is firmly established and
regularly followed in the Florida courts. See Fla. R. Crim. P. 3.850(c); see also
Teffeteller, 734 So. 2d at 1016; Smith, 445 So. 2d at 325. Thus, the Court finds these
claims are procedurally defaulted. Snodgrass has failed to show cause or prejudice to
overcome this procedural default. Likewise, as noted above, Snodgrass’ claim of actual
innocence is insufficient. As such, the Court declines to consider these claims on the
merits. Sykes, 433 U.S. at 85-86.
F. Ground Thirteen
Snodgrass asserts that he is actually innocent and gives a litany of reasons why
he believes such. Doc. 22 at 19-20. Essentially, Snodgrass claims he is innocent
because the victim and other witnesses lied and conspired against him. Id.
Respondents contend Snodgrass failed to properly present this claim in state
court; thus, it is precluded from federal habeas review. Doc. 25 at 14.
22
Snodgrass raised this claim as ground six in his Rule 3.850 Motion. Resp. Ex. L
at 42-46. In denying this claim, the circuit court ruled that “[t]his ground is improper
for a Rule 3.850 Motion.” Resp. Ex. M at 3. The Fifth DCA per curiam affirmed the
denial of these claims without a written opinion. Resp. Exs. P; S.
It is unclear whether the circuit court’s conclusion that this claim is “improper
for a Rule 3.850 Motion” constitutes a firmly established and regularly followed state
procedural bar. Regardless, Snodgrass is not entitled to federal habeas relief on this
claim. While a federal habeas petitioner may allege actual innocence to overcome a
procedural bar or the application of the one-year limitations period, the Supreme
Court has “not resolved whether a prisoner may be entitled to habeas relief based on
a freestanding claim of actual innocence.” McQuiggin v. Perkins, 569 U.S. 383, 392
(2013) (citing Herrera v. Collins, 506 U.S. 390, 404-05 (1993)). However, the Eleventh
Circuit “forbids granting habeas relief based upon a claim of actual innocence, anyway,
at least in non-capital cases.” Jordan v. Sec’y Dep’t of Corr., 485 F.3d 1351, 1356 (11th
Cir. 2007) (citations omitted); see also Cunningham v. Dist. Attorney’s Office for
Escambia Cty., 592 F.3d 1237, 1272 (11th Cir. 2010) (recognizing that “this Court’s
own precedent does not allow habeas relief on a freestanding innocence claim in noncapital cases.”). Therefore, Ground Thirteen is not cognizable on federal habeas
review. Even if it were, the claim is subject to denial on the merits.
G. Ground Fourteen
Snodgrass contends that the circuit court erred in excluding the testimony of
his former lawyer, Jean Moyer. Doc. 22 at 21. According to Snodgrass, Moyer would
23
have testified that the victim’s sister and father told her that the victim fabricated the
allegations against Snodgrass because the victim’s mother was trying to get custody
of the children from her father. Id.
Respondents submit that Snodgrass failed to fairly present the federal nature
of this claim in state court, and as such, the claim is unexhausted and procedurally
defaulted. Doc. 25 at 14.
At trial, Snodgrass proffered the testimony of Moyer. Resp. Ex. A at 648-76.
Moyer testified she held a meeting with the victim’s sister and father during her pretrial investigation. Id. at 648-53. During that meeting, the victim’s sister allegedly
stated the victim never told her that Snodgrass harmed her. Id. at 651. Furthermore,
Moyer claimed that the father stated he believed the victim’s mother coerced the
victim into fabricating the sexual abuse to gain an advantage in a custody battle over
the children. Id. at 652. The circuit court ultimately excluded Moyer as a witness,
concluding her testimony constituted hearsay. Id. at 676.
Snodgrass raised this claim in his pro se brief on direct appeal. Resp. Ex. G at
5-6. When briefing this issue, however, Snodgrass did not state or suggest that it was
a federal claim. Id. Instead, Snodgrass argued the relevancy of the excluded testimony
and asserted it did not amount to hearsay. Id. As such Ground Fourteen is
unexhausted and procedurally defaulted. Baldwin, 541 U.S. at 29. Snodgrass has
failed to show cause for or prejudice from this procedural default. Likewise, as noted
above, Snodgrass’ claim of actual innocence is insufficient to overcome this procedural
default.
24
Nevertheless, even if this claim was exhausted, Snodgrass would not be entitled
to relief. Moyer’s proffered testimony reflects it was based entirely on her recollection
of what the victim’s sister and father told her, which would be inadmissible hearsay.
See §§ 90.801-805, Fla. Stat. Moreover, the victim’s sister testified at trial that the
victim told her “no” when she asked her if Snodgrass inappropriately touched her.
Resp. Ex. A at 430. Similarly, the victim’s father testified the victim never told him
about the sexual abuse. Id. at 854, 878. Accordingly, the facts Moyer would have
testified to were presented at trial. However, the jury still found Snodgrass guilty.
Furthermore, testimony from the father concerning his belief as to Snodgrass’ guilt or
innocence is impermissible. See Martinez v. State, 761 So. 2d 1074, 1079 (Fla. 2000)
(noting “that a witness's opinion as to the guilt or innocence of the accused is not
admissible.”) (citations omitted). For the above stated reasons, Ground Fourteen is
denied.
H. Ground Fifteen
Snodgrass avers that the circuit court erred in denying his request to present
evidence that the victim had previously accused two other men of similar molestations.
Doc. 22 at 22-23. Notably, Snodgrass contends these prior accusations were probably
false but does not allege that it was actually confirmed that these prior allegations
were false. Id. He further maintains that the circuit court erred in denying his request
to present evidence that his ex-wife paid the victim’s mother to fabricate the basis of
these charges. Id.
25
Respondents submit that Snodgrass failed to fairly present the federal nature
of this claim in state court, and as such, the claim is unexhausted and procedurally
defaulted. Doc. 25 at 14-15.
At trial, Snodgrass argued to the circuit court that the victim’s prior accusations
should be admitted. Resp. Ex. A at 197-208. However, the circuit court excluded the
evidence. Id. at 205-07. Snodgrass raised a similar claim in his pro se brief on direct
appeal. Resp. Ex. G at 7. When briefing this issue, however, Snodgrass did not state
or suggest that it was a federal claim. Id. Instead, Snodgrass merely argued the
relevancy of the excluded evidence. Id. As such Ground Fourteen is unexhausted and
procedurally defaulted. Baldwin, 541 U.S. at 29. Snodgrass has failed to show cause
for or prejudice from this procedural default. Likewise, as noted above, Snodgrass’
claim of actual innocence is insufficient to overcome this procedural default.
Nevertheless, even if properly exhausted, this claim fails. Pursuant to Florida
law, evidence of a victim’s prior accusations of sexual abuse unrelated to the
defendant, even if false, are not admissible. Pantoja v. State, 59 So. 3d 1092 (Fla.
2011). However, under federal law if those prior accusations of sexual abuse are false,
then the accusations are admissible under the Confrontation Clause. Compare Sec’y
Fla. Dep’t of Corr. v. Baker, 406 F. App’x 416 (11th Cir. 2010) (holding that state trial
court’s ruling prohibiting petitioner from cross-examining the victim about prior false
accusations of sexual abuse from other men violated petitioner’s Confrontation Clause
rights), with United States v. Tail, 459 F.3d 854, 860-61 (8th Cir. 2006) (finding no
violation of the Confrontation Clause because defendant failed to support his claim
26
that the victim’s previous accusations of abuse were false and therefore the evidence
“had only limited probative value.”), Quinn v. Haynes, 234 F.3d 837, 846 (4th Cir.
2000) (“A true allegation of another sexual assault is completely irrelevant to
credibility.”), and Parker v. Sec’y Dep’t of Corr., No. 8:10-CV-1576-T-27TGW, 2013 WL
4080349, at *5 (M.D. Fla. Aug. 13, 2013) (distinguishing Baker in finding no Due
Process or Confrontation Clause violation in trial court’s exclusion of evidence of prior
accusations of sexual abuse where petitioner provided no evidence that the
accusations were false).
Here, Snodgrass presented no direct evidence at trial or in his Amended
Petition showing that the victim’s prior accusations were false. Resp. Ex. A at 197208; Doc. 22. The record reflects that the victim made prior allegations of sexual abuse
by two men other than Snodgrass. Resp. Ex. A at 200-01. Snodgrass contends that
because those allegations were never prosecuted, the victim must have lied about
them. Doc. 22 at 22. However, the mere failure to prosecute is not evidence of the
victim fabricating these past accusations. See O’Quinn v. Sec’y Dep’t of Corr., No. 6:09CCV-217-Orl-36GJK, 2012 WL 750752, at *7 (M.D. Fla. March 7, 2012) (finding “there
is no indication the victim’s allegations were false merely because the accused was not
prosecuted.”). Accordingly, the Court finds Snodgrass has presented no credible
evidence that the victim’s past allegations of sexual abuse were false. Therefore, this
evidence would have been inadmissible. Tail, 459 F.3d at 860-61; Quinn, 234 F.3d at
846; Parker, 2013 WL 4080349, at *5. Ground Fifteen is denied.
27
I. Ground Sixteen
Snodgrass claims that the prosecutor was so desperate to get a conviction that
she commented on false testimony and fabricated evidence during her closing
arguments. Doc. 22 at 23-24. Specifically, Snodgrass contends the prosecutor’s closing
arguments were improper because she lied about: (1) Snodgrass not allowing parents
to be present during the lessons; (2) the presence of video cameras in his bedroom and
bathroom at the time of the offense; (3) why a large amount of cookies were next to his
bed; (4) pictures of the victim wearing costumes displayed in his “show book”; (5) the
victim stating it hurt when Snodgrass penetrated her vagina; and (6) the rope used to
restrain the victim. Id. at 24; Doc 23-19.
Respondents contend Snodgrass failed to properly present this claim in state
court; thus, it is precluded from federal habeas review. Doc. 25 at 15.
Snodgrass raised this claim as ground two in his Rule 3.850 Motion. Resp. Ex.
L at 16-23. In denying this claim, the circuit court ruled that “[t]he Prosecutor’s
statements appear to be a fair comment on the evidence presented,” and “[r]egardless,
this is a ground that should or could have been brought up on direct appeal.” Resp. Ex.
M at 2. The Fifth DCA per curiam affirmed the denial of these claims without a written
opinion. Resp. Exs. P; S.
A procedural default may result from non-compliance with state procedural
requirements. Coleman, 501 U.S. at 729-30. Federal courts are barred from reaching
the merits of a state prisoner's federal habeas claim where the petitioner has failed to
comply with an independent and adequate state procedural rule. Sykes, 433 U.S. at
28
85-86. The procedural bar imposed in Snodgrass’ case is firmly established and
regularly followed in the Florida courts. See Fla. R. Crim. P. 3.850(c); see also
Teffeteller, 734 So. 2d at 1016; Smith, 445 So. 2d at 325. Thus, the Court finds these
claims are procedurally defaulted. Coleman, 501 U.S. at 729-30. Snodgrass has failed
to show cause or prejudice to overcome this procedural default. Likewise, as noted
above, Snodgrass’ claim of actual innocence is insufficient.
Nevertheless, even if not procedurally defaulted, Snodgrass is not entitled to
relief. During closing arguments “a prosecutor may ‘assist the jury in analyzing,
evaluating, and applying the evidence’ and, therefore, may ‘urge[ ] the jury to draw
inferences and conclusions from the evidence produced at trial.” United States v.
Adams, 339 F. App’x 883, 886 (11th Cir. 2008) (quoting United States v. Johns, 734
F.2d 657, 663 (11th Cir.1984)). However, “[a] material misstatement of fact in a closing
argument is improper.” Ruiz v. Sec’y Fla. Dep’t of Corr., 439 F. App’x 831, 834 (11th
Cir. 2011) (citing Davis v. Zant, 36 F.3d 1538, 1548 n.15 (11th Cir. 1994)) (emphasis
added).
Each of the prosecutor’s arguments raised in her closing argument was a proper
comment or inference on the evidence presented at trial.
i.
The Presence of Parents
During closing arguments, the state contended that Snodgrass wanted the
victim alone and to ensure no witnesses were present, which is why he did not allow
parents to be present during the training. Resp. Ex. A at 1059-60, 1100. Snodgrass
contends this was a lie, because the victim testified her family was present, but outside
29
of the house at the time of the sexual abuse. Doc. 23-19 at 4. However, the victim’s
father also testified Snodgrass told him that parents were not allowed to be present
during the unicycle training lessons. Resp. Ex. A at 824. Accordingly, there was an
evidentiary basis in the record to argue this point; therefore, the comments were not
improper. Adams, 339 F. App’x at 886.
ii.
Security Cameras
During closing arguments, the prosecutor noted that hidden cameras were
found angled towards the bathroom and inside the bedroom, and that one of the first
things the victim observed when she entered the house was a monitor with the live
feed of surveillance video. Resp. Ex. A at 1061. The record reflects the victim testified
she saw a split-screen monitor with four camera feeds in Snodgrass’ living room, and
Detective Taylor testified that he observed surveillance style cameras in the bathroom
and bedroom. Resp. Ex. A at 101-03, 290-91. The prosecutor’s comments discuss this
evidence in the same light as it was presented at trial. The state noted that the
detectives spotted the cameras and that the victim saw the monitors. Moreover,
despite Snodgrass’ self-serving testimony to the contrary that he placed the cameras
in there after the incident, the prosecutor could still argue to the jury that they
disregard that testimony as incredible and infer the cameras were in place at the time
of the incident. See Kimes v. United States, 240 F.2d 301, 302 (5th Cir. 1957) (noting
that “[i]t is well settled that the jury was the sole judge of the credibility of the
witnesses and had the right, after due consideration, to believe or disbelieve the
30
testimony of any witness that took the stand.”). Accordingly, these comments were not
improper. Adams, 339 F. App’x at 886.
iii.
Tray of Cookies
During closing arguments, the prosecutor discussed the presence of teddy bears,
pink sheets, glittery costumes, and a tray of cookies by the bed, along with offers of
limousine rides and money to show how Snodgrass would lure little girls. Resp. Ex. A
at 1058-62. Snodgrass claims it was improper to discuss the cookie tray because he
notes that he and various defense witnesses testified Snodgrass received the cookie
tray approximately two months after the incident occurred. Doc. 23-19 at 28. The
record reflects Detective Taylor found a tray of cookies by Snodgrass’ bed and he
thought it was peculiar. Resp. Ex. A at 357-58. Again, the jury was free to reject
Snodgrass’ self-serving testimony or the other defense witnesses’ testimony on the
subject. Kimes, 240 F.2d at 302. Accordingly, the prosecutor could make that
argument to the jury to disbelieve that testimony; therefore, the comments were not
improper. Adams, 339 F. App’x at 886. Moreover, the existence of the cookie tray was
not a “material” fact; therefore, even if not an accurate comment on the evidence, it
was not improper. Ruiz, 439 F. App’x at 834.
iv.
Pictures of the Victim in the “Trophy Book”
During closing arguments, the state argued that there was no excuse for
keeping the photographs of the victim in a book Snodgrass referred to as a “trophy” or
“show” book. Resp. Ex. A at 1100. Snodgrass contends this was a lie because none of
the pictures of the victim in the costume were put into that book. Doc. 23-19 at 33-34.
31
The record reflects that pictures of the victim and her sister performing with
Snodgrass are in this book, a fact Snodgrass admitted. Resp. Ex. A at 281-82, 101516, 1018-19. However, Snodgrass denied that the book contained any pictures of the
children in costumes. Id. at 1021. Notably, this “trophy book” was introduced into
evidence; therefore, the jury had it available to review. Id. at 281-82, 1016. As there
were pictures of the victim and her sister in the “trophy book” and the prosecutor did
not specify which pictures were in that book during her closing argument, the Court
finds this statement to be a proper comment on the evidence. Adams, 339 F. App’x at
886.
v.
The Victim’s Testimony Regarding Pain
During closing arguments, the prosecutor stated that Snodgrass hurt the victim
when he penetrated her vagina with his penis. Resp. Ex. A at 1059, 1104. The record
reflects the victim testified the penetration hurt her. Id. at 125. Accordingly, this was
a proper comment on evidence presented to the jury. Adams, 339 F. App’x at 886.
vi.
The Rope
In closing arguments, the state discussed Snodgrass tying the victim to the bed
with a rope. Resp. Ex. A at 1059. Snodgrass takes issue with the victim’s various
descriptions of the rope, specifically the color of it, throughout the investigation and
criminal proceedings. Doc. 22 at 23-24. The record reflects that the victim testified
that Snodgrass tied her to the bed with a white rope she described as soft and braided.
Resp. Ex. A at 118, 167. The state introduced a photograph of a rope that the victim
identified as the rope Snodgrass used to tie her to the bed. Id. at 118-19. Accordingly,
32
as the rope was in evidence and the victim positively identified it as the one used
during the commission of the offense, these comments were proper. Adams, 339 F.
App’x at 886. To the extent Snodgrass disputes the victim’s trial testimony in
comparison to previous comments she made, this is a matter of credibility Snodgrass
should have addressed during cross-examination and his own closing arguments, but
it does not render the state’s closing arguments improper.
For the above stated reasons, Ground Sixteen is denied.
Accordingly, it is ORDERED AND ADJUDGED:
1.
The Amended Petition (Doc. 22) is DENIED and this case is
DISMISSED WITH PREJUDICE.
2.
The Clerk of Court shall enter judgment accordingly, terminate any
pending motions, and close this case.
3.
If Snodgrass appeals this Order, the Court denies a certificate of
appealability. Because the Court has determined that a certificate of appealability is
not warranted, the Clerk shall terminate from the pending motions report any motion
to proceed on appeal as a pauper that may be filed in this case. Such termination shall
serve as a denial of the motion.8
The Court should issue a certificate of appealability only if the petitioner
makes “a substantial showing of the denial of a constitutional right.” 28 U.S.C. §
2253(c)(2). To make this substantial showing, Sndograss “must demonstrate that
reasonable jurists would find the district court’s assessment of the constitutional
claims debatable or wrong,” Tennard v. Dretke, 542 U.S. 274, 282 (2004) (quoting
Slack v. McDaniel, 529 U.S. 473, 484 (2000)), or that “the issues presented were
‘adequate to deserve encouragement to proceed further.’” Miller-El v. Cockrell, 537
U.S. 322, 335-36 (2003) (quoting Barefoot v. Estelle, 463 U.S. 880, 893 n.4 (1983)).
33
8
DONE AND ORDERED at Jacksonville, Florida, this 30th day of August,
2018.
TIMOTHY J. CORRIGAN
United States District Judge
Jax-8
C:
Daniel Snodgrass, #134886
Counsel of record
Here, after consideration of the record as a whole, the Court will deny a certificate of
appealability.
34
Disclaimer: Justia Dockets & Filings provides public litigation records from the federal appellate and district courts. These filings and docket sheets should not be considered findings of fact or liability, nor do they necessarily reflect the view of Justia.
Why Is My Information Online?