United States v. Billy Gene Howard

BENTON, Circuit Judge.

A jury convicted Billy Gene Howard on possession of a firearm, possession of stolen firearms, and use of methamphetamine while possessing a firearm, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1), 922(g)(3), 924(e), 922(j), and 924(a)(2). Howard appeals the district court’s 1 denial of his motions for judgment of acquittal and new trial, based on insufficient evidence. He also appeals the sentence, claiming the court imposed an improper offense level under the Armed Career Criminal Guidelines because he did not possess the firearm “in connection with” a burglary.

On January 14, 2002,…