United States v. Lopez-Monzon

Defendant was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and importing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. The court held that the evidence was sufficient to support defendant's convictions where the jury determined beyond a reasonable doubt that defendant had the requisite knowledge to support his convictions for possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and importing methamphetamine. In this case, the jury's verdict was supported by evidence that defendant controlled the tractor-trailer in which the methamphetamine was found; gave statements to Agent Santiago inconsistent with the evidence; gave implausible explanations regarding the fuel tank and the source of the methamphetamine; and was nervous during his interview. A rational jury could find this evidence, as well as the high amount and value of the methamphetamine hidden in defendant's tractor-trailer, demonstrated that defendant knew about the methamphetamine. Accordingly, the court affirmed the judgment. View "United States v. Lopez-Monzon" on Justia Law