Opinion ID: 507327
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Shanks-Carrera

Text: 52 Shanks-Carrera was alleged to be a supporting player in the 50-kilogram transaction. It was he whom the DEA observed carrying a duffel bag--later found to be filled with cocaine--into the apartment arranged as the delivery site. Shanks-Carrera was acquitted of conspiracy, but convicted of possession. 53 Testifying at trial, he claimed that he had no knowledge that the duffel bag contained cocaine. Appellant explained that incriminating statements made at the time of his arrest--and hiding when DEA agents arrived--were the results of fear and a desire to protect his brother, who allegedly gave him the duffel bag. The jury was in a better position to assess these issues of credibility. Viewing the evidence in the light most favorable to the government, we find it sufficient to establish that the appellant possessed cocaine with the intent to distribute it.