United States v. Smith

MEMORANDUM **

Raymond Paul Smith appeals his jury conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922 (g)(1). We affirm.

The government can prove the possession element of § 922(g)(1) by showing that possession was constructive, see United States v. Carrasco, 257 F.3d 1045, 1049 (9th Cir.2001), which means the government had to show Smith was (1) aware of the gun’s presence and (2) that he could “exercise dominion and control over it.” United States v. Rodriguez, 761 F.2d 1339, 1341 (9th Cir.1985). “If the defendant has exclusive control over the premises where contraband is found, then knowledge and control may be inferred.” Id. Here, the government produced evidence showing that Smith was the only driver and occupant of the vehicle for several hours. Cf., e.g., United States v. Ruiz, 462 F.3d 1082 (9th Cir.2006) (weapons found in house that did not belong to defendants and to which others had access). The gun was positioned below the driver’s seat in partial view. From this, a rational juror could infer constructive possession. See Jackson v. Virginia, 443 U.S. 307, 319 , 99 S.Ct. 2781 , 61 L.Ed.2d 560 (1979) (holding that challenge to…