UNITED STATES OF AMERICA v. CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL BURGESS (2016)

Christopher Michael Burgess pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography depicting prepubescent minors, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B). The district court imposed a 180-month sentence, based in part on a four-level “vulnerable victim” sentencing enhancement. U.S.S.G § 3A1.1(b). Prior to sentencing, Burgess moved to withdraw his guilty plea, asserting the plea was not knowing and voluntary.

Burgess challenges that motion's denial as well as the “vulnerable victim” sentencing enhancement. The denial of a motion to withdraw a guilty plea is reviewed for abuse of discretion. United States v. Clark, 931 F.2d 292, 294 (5th Cir. 1991).

The court had broad discretion in deciding whether Burgess had shown “a fair and just reason” for withdrawing the plea. Fed. R. Crim. P. 11(d)(2)(B); United States v. Carr, 740 F.2d 339, 344 (5th Cir. 1984). The court considered the factors set forth in Carr and determined, inter alia: Burgess had not consistently asserted his innocence; his one-year delay in moving to withdraw was not reasonable; he was closely assisted by counsel prior to his plea; and the plea was in all other respects knowing and voluntary. The record establishes that, under the totality of the circumstances, the court did not abuse its discretion by denying Burgess' motion to withdraw the plea. See Carr, 740 F.2d at 344.

Burgess concedes that, if his plea is valid, his claim about the enhancement is barred by the valid appeal waiver contained in his written plea agreement. Because the plea is valid, Burgess' contention about the “vulnerable victim” enhancement is barred by the appeal waiver. See United States v. McKinney, 406 F.3d 744, 746 (5th Cir. 2005).

AFFIRMED.

PER CURIAM:*