United States of America, Plaintiff-appellee, v. Jose Prado Mendoza, Defendant-appellant, 999 F.2d 545 (9th Cir. 1993)

MEMORANDUM^** 

Jose Prado Mendoza appeals his conviction and 121-month sentence after a guilty plea to conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846. Pursuant to Anders v. California, 386 U.S. 738 (1967), Mendoza's counsel submitted a motion to withdraw as counsel of record and a brief which identifies no meritorious issues for our review. The government contends Mendoza waived his right to appeal based upon his written plea agreement. We agree.

" [A]n express waiver of the right to appeal in a negotiated plea of guilty is valid if knowingly and voluntarily made." United States v. Bolinger, 940 F.2d 478, 480 (9th Cir. 1991).

Here, Mendoza's plea agreement provided that, among other things, he waived his right to appeal upon being found guilty. Because there is no indication in the record that Mendoza's waiver of his right to appeal was not knowingly and voluntarily made, the waiver is valid and Mendoza may not appeal the district court's judgment. See Bolinger, 940 F.2d at 480.

Accordingly, counsel's motion to withdraw as counsel of record is GRANTED and the district court's judgment is AFFIRMED.