United States v. Williamson

PATRICK E. HIGGINBOTHAM, Circuit Judge:

Ronnie Williamson was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A). He contends, inter alia, that the Government violated Batson v. Kentucky. We agree, reverse his conviction and remand for a new trial. In doing so, we reject Williamson’s claim of insufficient evidence.

I

The events leading to Williamson’s arrest and conviction grew out of a complaint to Child Protective Services regarding “drug endangered” children in the apartment where Williamson was staying. A…