Dist.. Ct. did not err in imposing 235-month term of incarceration as sentence on drug distribution charge. Dist. Ct. could properly find that charged offenses encompassed transactions totaling 2.06 kilograms based on testimony from defendant’s main drug supplier, where said testimony was corroborated by recorded telephone calls. Also, Dist. Ct. could find that defendant was manager in instant drug conspiracy that involved 5 or more individuals, and defendant’s flight to Mexico for 10-year period prior to scheduled trial on instant charge supported obstruction of justice enhancement. Moreover, Dist. Ct. could look to hearsay testimony from three felons who linked defendant to 1990 murder of rival gang member, when weighing section 3553(a) factors.
Federal 7th Circuit Court
Criminal Court
Sentencing