Judge Marilyn L. Huff of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California ordered a presentence investigation report be submitted by April 11, 2011.
After being examined as to his understanding of his constitutional rights, his right to trial and his understanding of the plea agreement he signed, Richards was found fully competent to enter knowing and voluntary plea, the judge said.
Richards agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute d-methamphetamine hydrochloride, distribution of “ice,” and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
U.S. Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the NMI Alicia Limtiaco said the case was investigated by the CNMI Department of Public Safety’s Drug Task Force and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James J. Benedetto.
Richards was represented by court-appointed defense attorney Michael Evangelista.
Huff remanded Richards to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service after the hearing.
Richards has been in detention since October last year.
