In State v. Taylor, 79 N.C. App. 635, 339 S.E.2d 859 (1986), the defense counsel refrained from speaking or presenting evidence during the sentencing hearing. The Court determined the defense counsel's decision, although "troublesome," did not "constitute deficient performance prejudicial to the defendant." Id. at 637, 339 S.E.2d at 861. The defense counsel's decision to remain silent was "'strategy and trial tactics' properly left within the control of counsel." Id. at 638, 339 S.E.2d at 861.