UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, v. DAVID CARMONA, MARCO RUIZ OCHOA, MOSES…

Bench Name, Court Name, and Judgment Date

• Bench Name: United States District Judge Jennifer L. Rochon
• Court Name: United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit
• Judgment Date: May 15, 2023

Facts

Ronald Yoel Marte Carmona was convicted on multiple charges related to fentanyl distribution. He was indicted on one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and five counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute forty grams or more of fentanyl. Each count corresponded to a specific controlled buy. Carmona appealed the convictions, challenging the denial of his motions to suppress evidence obtained from a Terry stop and a subsequent apartment search, claiming both were unconstitutional.

Issues

Carmona argued that the district court erred in denying his motions to suppress, contending that the Terry stop was not supported by probable cause or reasonable suspicion. He also claimed that the evidence was insufficient to support his six convictions.

Decision

The United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit affirmed the district court’s decision. The court ruled that the Terry stop was reasonable and supported by articulable suspicion. It held that the agents had reasonable suspicion to believe Carmona was involved in criminal activity, making the stop permissible. Additionally, the court found that the evidence presented at trial was sufficient for a rational factfinder to conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that Carmona was guilty of the charges.