United States v. Randy Kearse, A/K/A Randy Kiz, A/K/A Reginald Turner
Docket: 93-5613
Court: Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit; May 17, 1994; Federal Appellate Court
Randy Kearse was convicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess cocaine base, resulting in a 360-month sentence, followed by ten years of supervised release, a fine, and a special assessment. The court confirmed that the sentencing range was appropriately set between 360 months and life. Kearse appealed the validity of his sentence, particularly challenging enhancements based on his role as an organizer and possession of a firearm. The court found that the district court correctly enhanced Kearse's base offense level due to his leadership role in the drug operation, supported by credible testimony from co-conspirator Jamont Smith. Smith’s account detailed a ten-year acquaintance with Kearse, during which he sought employment in narcotics from Kearse. Smith described Kearse as one of the primary figures managing operations in Greensboro. Additionally, the court upheld the enhancement for firearm possession, based on Smith’s testimony about an incident where Kearse received a .357 firearm from another conspirator. The court deemed the evidence sufficient to justify both enhancements. The appellate court affirmed the district court’s decision, concluding that there was no error in the enhancements applied to Kearse's sentence.