April 27, 2026·25-11186·Per Curiam·By James Taylor
The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit granted a motion by the Federal Public Defender to withdraw from representing Willie Ray Valentine. The court dismissed the appeal after finding no nonfrivolous issues for appellate review.
Background
The Federal Public Defender appointed to represent Defendant-Appellant Willie Ray Valentine moved for leave to withdraw and filed a brief in accordance with Anders v. California and United States v. Flores. Valentine did not file a response to the motion.
The court’s reasoning
The court reviewed counsel’s brief and the relevant portions of the record. It concurred with counsel’s assessment that the appeal presents no nonfrivolous issue for appellate review.
What it means going forward
Counsel is excused from further responsibilities, and the appeal is dismissed.
