UNITED STATES v. WILLIAMS (2021)

Darius J. Williams appeals the district court's order denying his 18 U.S.C. § 3582(c)(1)(A)(i) motion for compassionate release and motion to appoint counsel. After reviewing the record, we conclude that the district court did not abuse its discretion in determining that the 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a) factors weighed against granting compassionate release in Williams’ case. See United States v. Kibble, 992 F.3d 326, 329 (4th Cir. 2021) (per curiam) (stating standard of review); United States v. High, 997 F.3d 181, 186-91 (4th Cir. 2021) (confirming district court did not abuse its discretion in denying compassionate release motion without making extraordinary and compelling circumstances finding but assuming that such conditions exist and explaining that district court must show it has considered parties’ arguments and has a reasoned basis for decision). Additionally, because Williams ably presented his straightforward arguments for compassionate release without the assistance of counsel, the interests of justice did not require the appointment of counsel. The district court thus did not abuse its discretion in denying the appointment motion. See United States v. Legree, 205 F.3d 724, 730 (4th Cir. 2000) (noting that district court has discretion to appoint counsel in proceedings under § 3582(c) if interests of justice so require).

Accordingly, we affirm the district court's order on these bases. United States v. Williams, No. 7:17-cr-00084-BR-1, 2021 WL 398155 (E.D.N.C. Feb. 4, 2021). 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.

AFFIRMED

PER CURIAM:

Affirmed by unpublished per curiam opinion. Unpublished opinions are not binding precedent in this circuit.