⚖ Oral Arguments, with Context

The First Circuit hears an appeal from drug-conspiracy and firearm convictions in Puerto Rico. Prosecutors described a network selling drugs in several municipalities, with members supplying firearms and protecting the operation. A jury found the defendant guilty of participating in the conspiracy and possessing a gun in furtherance of drug trafficking. At trial, the jury also learned about a separate gun conviction from 2018, four years after the charged conspiracy ended. The judge allowed that evidence to show knowledge and intent, with an instruction limiting its use. The defense will contend that this invited the jury to infer guilt from another crime. The government will defend the evidence as relevant to the charged offenses. Listen for the distinction between proving participation in this drug operation and treating other wrongdoing as proof of guilt.

US v Almestica-Monge (No. 24-1345) — U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, argued November 6, 2026.