2:23-cr-00402
C.D. Cal.Mar 26, 2025Background
- Defendant Cindy Inthavong entered a plea agreement with the United States Attorney's Office, agreeing to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine.
- The case stems from a drug trafficking conspiracy operating from at least April 5, 2021, to August 4, 2023, primarily in Los Angeles County, involving Inthavong, co-defendant Howard Haselkorn, and others.
- Inthavong admitted to distributing at least 400 grams of fentanyl and 500 grams of methamphetamine and to playing a role by leasing and operating premises for drug manufacture and storage.
- The plea agreement outlines potential penalties, including a statutory maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, along with collateral consequences affecting benefits and immigration status.
- The government agreed to move to dismiss remaining counts upon sentencing, provided Inthavong complies with the agreement and demonstrates acceptance of responsibility.
- The agreement includes Inthavong’s waiver of certain trial rights, appeal rights (with specific limitations), and post-conviction collateral attack rights (except limited exceptions such as ineffective assistance of counsel).
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guilty plea to drug conspiracy | Inthavong conspired to distribute illegal substances | Admitted guilt as part of plea | Court accepts plea agreement and guilty plea |
| Scope and foreseeability of drug quantity | Large amounts were involved/foreseeable under conspiracy | Admits to drug quantities and foreseeability | Admitted quantities govern statutory sentencing range |
| Sentencing factors and guideline application | Guidelines base offense level applies per facts | Agrees with stipulated guidelines, reserves right to argue | Sentencing determined under agreement, but at Court's discretion |
| Waiver of rights and appeal | Defendant waives most rights and appeals in plea | Defendant enters voluntary waiver | Waiver is valid; rights surrendered per agreement |
Key Cases Cited
No reported cases were cited in this plea agreement or opinion.