United States v. Armando Valencia

Armando Valencia appeals his conviction and sentence of 235 months’ imprisonment, imposed after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to import five kilograms or more of cocaine into the United States, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 963. On appeal, Valencia argues that the district court erred in denying his motion for continuance based on the complexity of the case and the extent of discovery needed. He also argues that the district court erred at sentencing in failing to recognize its authority to grant a downward departure based on conditions of pretrial detention and in imposing a…