⚖ Oral Arguments, with Context

The Seventh Circuit hears United States v. Demario Flemming. Start with the incident behind the sentencing questions. Officers responding to reports of gunshots encountered Flemming driving away. The police account describes a vehicle chase, a crash at an exit ramp, and flight on foot before his arrest. A handgun was recovered. That account is not a finding that every initial accusation was proved. Now listen for how particular sentencing rules fit the conduct established in the record. A federal firearm guideline can increase the calculation when a gun is used or possessed in connection with another felony. A separate conviction for that other felony is not required. When you hear acceptance of responsibility, think of a possible sentencing reduction, not an automatic reward for pleading guilty. The guidelines also distinguish reckless endangerment during flight from willfully obstructing justice. Their interaction matters, not just how dangerous the chase was. Finally, listen for harmless error: would the judge have imposed the same sentence under a proper calculation, and what in the judge's explanation supports that conclusion? Keep the initial police allegations, the sentencing findings, and the requirements of each legal provision separate as you hear the lawyers and judges work through the case.

USA v. Demario Flemming (No. 25-2825) — U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, argued November 5, 2026.