Seventh Circuit: USA v. Rita Law

 


Given the complexity of the investigation and the need to explain it to the jury, it was not an abuse of discretion to admit the hearsay statements given to federal investigators under the "course of the investigation" exception.

Unwitnessed affidavit was properly authenticated by the details in the substance of the affidavit.

Financial threats, psychological threats, and threats to immigration status provided sufficient evidence for conviction under the statute.

The involuntary servitude sentencing factor was correctly added to the transportation charge.  Sufficient fear was created in the commission of the offense to justify the relevant sentencing factor.  Obstruction sentencing factor correctly applied for perjured affidavit. 

Below-guidelines 360 month sentence was reasonable.


USA v. Rita Law