United States v. Jeffrey Williams

Jeffrey Williams argues that the district court’s denial of his motion to disclose the identity of a confidential informant violated his due process rights, that the Sentencing Guidelines denied him fundamental fairness and due process, and that the court applied the Guidelines improperly. We affirm.

BACKGROUND

In July 1988 Officer Hascall obtained a search warrant for a residence in Portland. The supporting affidavit contained information from a confidential informant who had purchased cocaine at that residence from “John Doe”, described as a black man, 20 to 25 years old, 5'8" to 5'9", 180-190 pounds, with a dark complexion and a “jeri” curl hair style.

When Officer Hascall executed the warrant, he found Williams on the back porch of the house. He discovered also seven rocks of crack cocaine, a semi-automatic weapon in a bedroom closet, a revolver under a cushion in the living room, and $768 in cash. Williams also had $149 on his person. At that time, he admitted selling cocaine and made a number of incriminating statements about his drug activities.

He was indicted for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, 21 U.S.C. § 841 (a)(1), and pleaded not guilty. After a…