US v. Adams, 08-4205

Challenge to a conviction for drug related crimes arising from a reverse sting operation

US v. Adams, 08-4205, concerned a challenge to a conviction of defendant for possessing more than 100 kilograms of marijuana with intent to distribute, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and attempting to escape from custody, arising from a reverse sting operation.

In affirming in part, the court held that the defendant was not deprived of his statutory right to a speedy trial.  The court also held that the facts were sufficient for the jury to find that defendant possessed the marijuana that agents had loaded into the van with the intent to distribute that marijuana as defendant constructively possessed the marijuana once he accepted the keys to the van, and he actually possessed it once he entered the van and attempted to start it.  However, the court reversed in part as the evidence was not sufficient to support his indictment for conspiracy to engage in money laundering.

Related Link:

• Read the Seventh Circuit's Full Decision in US v. Adams, 08-4205