Kape v. Gonzales

176 F. App'x 712

Opinion

MEMORANDUM

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Benardi Kape, a native and citizen of Albania, petitions for review of the decision of the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) affirming the opinion of an Immigration Judge (IJ) finding him not credible, and denying him asylum, withholding of removal, and protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT). We have jurisdiction under 8 U.S.C. § 1252, and we deny the petition.

Because the BIA added its own analysis while affirming the IJ’s opinion, we review both opinions. See Kalubi v. Ashcroft, 364 F.3d 1134, 1137 n. 3 (9th Cir.2004). We review for substantial evidence, and reverse a credibility determination only if the evidence compels a contrary conclusion. See Kaur v. Gonzales, 418 F.3d 1061, 1064 (9th Cir.2005).

Rape argues that his memory lapses and inconsistent testimony were the result of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the IJ did not properly take that into account. But the doctor’s testimony stated only that Rape “maybe” had PTSD, and the IJ was entitled to weigh that testimony along with other testimony in the case. The IJ identified specific inconsistencies that went to the heart of Rape’s claim of persecution; the length of his father’s detention, communication with his father since his arrest, the length of his beatings, and whether the police violence was directed at Rape individually or everyone at the rallies. These constitute specific reasons to disbelieve Rape’s testimony. See Singh v. Ashcroft, 367 F.3d 1139, 1143 (9th Cir. 2004) . We will not disturb the adverse credibility determination.

Because Raur did not provide credible testimony supporting eligibility for asylum, he did not meet the higher threshold for withholding of removal. See Movsisian v. Ashcroft, 395 F.3d 1095, 1097 (9th Cir. 2005) . Nor has he established that he is entitled to relief under CAT. See Farah v. Ashcroft, 348 F.3d 1153, 1156-57 (9th Cir. 2003) (where applicant’s claims under CAT are based on same statements found not credible in asylum context, CAT claim fails).

PETITION FOR REVIEW DENIED.

This disposition is not appropriate for publication and may not be cited to or by the courts of this circuit except as provided by 9th Cir. R. 36-3.