UNITED STATES v. ELROD (2020)

Kevin Earl Elrod pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951 (2018), and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(iii) (2018). The district court sentenced Elrod to 197 months in prison. He filed a timely notice of appeal.

On appeal, Elrod challenges only his firearms conviction, arguing that Hobbs Act robbery is not a crime of violence under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). He acknowledges, however, that we rejected that position in United States v. Mathis, 932 F.3d 242, 265-66 (4th Cir.), cert. denied, ––– U.S. ––––, 140 S. Ct. 639, 205 L.Ed.2d 401 (2019). The Government argues that the appeal should be dismissed because it falls within the scope of the appeal waiver contained in Elrod’s plea agreement.

We will enforce an appeal waiver if it is valid and the issue appealed is within the scope of the waiver. United States v. Davis, 689 F.3d 349, 355 (4th Cir. 2012). A waiver is valid if it is knowing and voluntary, based on an evaluation of the totality of the circumstances. United States v. Copeland, 707 F.3d 522, 528 (4th Cir. 2013). Elrod does not challenge the validity of his appeal waiver, and we conclude from our review of the record that his waiver was both knowing and voluntary. See United States v. Thornsbury, 670 F.3d 532, 537 (4th Cir. 2012). Moreover, Elrod’s only argument on appeal falls squarely within the scope of his waiver, foreclosing review.

Accordingly, we dismiss Elrod’s appeal. We dispense with oral argument because the facts and legal contentions are adequately presented in the materials before this court and argument would not aid the decisional process.

DISMISSED

PER CURIAM:

Dismissed by unpublished per curiam opinion. Unpublished opinions are not binding precedent in this circuit.