NEW YORK — A Bronx man with a history of three felonies sought new legal representation in a federal court on September 2, 2025, arguing that he should not be classified as an armed career criminal. The defendant had previously been charged in connection with violent offenses, including assault and robbery.
In December 2024, law enforcement arrested the man after they discovered a Luger 9mm firearm in his possession. When he appeared before U.S. District Judge P. Kevin Castel, he expressed a desire to replace his Federal Defender with a lawyer from the Criminal Justice Act panel.
During the hearing, Judge Castel noted the unusual circumstances framed the defendant’s legal struggle as he struggled to follow his attorney’s guidance. Inner City Press, the sole member of the public present, reported on the proceedings. Judge Castel emphasized the importance of transparency, suggesting that the Assistant U.S. Attorney could leave if they chose, but the prosecutor opted to remain in the courtroom.
The Federal Defender informed the court that the defendant had failed to heed advice regarding the significant legal ramifications he faced, including a potential 15-year mandatory minimum sentence stemming from the Armed Career Criminal Act. The newly appointed Criminal Justice Act lawyer acknowledged the seriousness of the implications as well, agreeing that the Act’s provisions would likely apply to the case.
Despite these warnings, the defendant indicated a strong preference for the new legal counsel. Judge Castel acknowledged the uncertainty around finding another attorney of similar qualifications and ultimately granted the request to switch representation. A follow-up hearing was scheduled for October 7 at noon.
The case, labeled as USA v. Carver, is part of an ongoing judicial process in the Southern District of New York. As it unfolds, both legal representatives and the court will navigate the complexities of the Armed Career Criminal Act while focusing on the defendant’s rights and the implications of his previous convictions.
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