Case Explained: United States of America v. David Rafael Walker

Court: United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit Filed: 2026-08-12 The eighth-circuit affirmed David Rafael Walker’s conviction for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). The court held that the evidence presented at trial was sufficient to support the jury’s rejection of Walker’s justification defense, noting that while such a defense does not negate the element of knowing possession required by the statute, it may excuse criminal liability if the jury believes the defendant’s testimony. However, the court found no basis to overturn the jury’s credibility determinations, as Walker failed to establish all elements of the defense, including that he disposed of the firearm once a safe opportunity arose. Regarding the admission of hearsay statements by law enforcement officers and interview recordings, the court applied the plain error standard because Walker failed to object at trial. The court concluded that even assuming the statements were inadmissible, their admission did not affect Walker’s substantial rights given the overwhelming volume of other admissible evidence, including surveillance footage, DNA evidence, and live witness testimony, which supported the guilty verdict. Consequently, Walker’s judgment of conviction and 120-month sentence remain in effect. Do It For The Case Law is a news reporting service. Nothing in this episode constitutes legal advice.