The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit affirmed the sentences imposed on Tyrone Leigh for attempted escape and possession of ammunition. The court found no breach of plea agreements and upheld the validity of appeal waivers.
Tyrone Leigh pleaded guilty to attempted escape from federal custody and possession of ammunition after a felony conviction. He appealed the sentences imposed, claiming breaches of plea agreements and procedural errors.
The court’s reasoning
The court reviewed Leigh’s claims for plain error and found that he failed to establish an implicit promise by the Government regarding a three-point reduction for acceptance of responsibility. The court also determined that the appeal waivers were valid and covered the sentencing issues raised by Leigh.
What it means going forward
The ruling affirms the sentences and reinforces the enforceability of plea agreement waivers in similar cases.
