July 17, 2026·25-3364·Panel Decision·Per Curiam·By James Taylor
A per curiam opinion from the Eighth Circuit affirming a drug conspiracy conviction and sentence after reviewing an Anders brief filed by defense counsel.
Thomas Pitts appealed his sentence after pleading guilty to a drug conspiracy offense. His counsel filed a brief under Anders versus California questioning whether the plea was knowing and voluntary.
The court’s reasoning
The court concluded the plea was knowing and voluntary and found no error in the district court’s compliance with Rule eleven. Independent review under Penson versus Ohio revealed no nonfrivolous issues for appeal.
What it means going forward
Defense counsel is permitted to withdraw, and the conviction and sentence stand.
