James Taylor

Correspondent

James Taylor

Capitol Hill correspondent, covers legislative and political stories.

Criminal Justice

Decisions covered by James Taylor

2,436 decisions
Mar 11 2026
10th Cir. 5:23-CR-00051-R-1) Panel Decision

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA v. AKIN ZHON WOFFORD

The Tenth Circuit affirmed Akin Zhon Wofford's conviction for armed bank robbery and firearm possession, rejecting his claim that jury instructions improperly relieved the government of its burden of proof. The court held that the challenged instruction, when read in the context of all jury directions, did not mislead the jury or violate the defendant's Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights.

Criminal Firearms
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Mar 11 2026
10th Cir. 2:24-CR-01062-MIS-1) Panel Decision

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA v. GUSTAVO ZAMORA-GUERRA

The Tenth Circuit affirmed a twenty-four-month prison sentence for illegal reentry, ruling that the district court did not abuse its discretion in imposing an upward variance. The appellate court held that the lower court provided compelling reasons for the sentence based on the defendant's repeated violations and history of extreme cruelty to animals.

Criminal Immigration (Criminal) Sentencing Guidelines
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Mar 11 2026
10th Cir. 5:24-CR-00250-PRW-1 Panel Decision

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA v. MALYK JAJUAN RANSBURG

The Tenth Circuit dismissed Malyk Jajuan Ransburg's appeal because he signed a valid plea agreement containing an enforceable waiver of his right to appeal. The court held that the government did not breach the plea agreement by failing to support a downward sentencing adjustment, as Ransburg's false denial of relevant conduct precluded him from receiving that benefit.

Criminal Firearms
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