Branch v. State

Tom Branch (“Movant”) appeals from the denial of his Rule 24.035 motion for post-conviction relief, contending he was forced to plead guilty because Plea Counsel (I) failed to file a motion for a-speedy trial, and (II) failed to raise a defense that the weapon used in the robbery could not be traced back to Movant. We affirm.

BACKGROUND

On June 12, 2014, Movant and his co-defendant lured a pregnant Mend (“Victim”) to their car in order to steal $120 from her. When Victim entered the vehicle, Movant pointed a silver revolver at her, demanded that she turn over her money, and then forced her from…