MEMORANDUM **

Patrick Johnson appeals from his guilty-plea conviction and 188-month sentence for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute — cocaine base, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), (b)(l)(B)(iii). Pursuant to Anders v. California, 386 U.S. 738, 87 S.Ct. 1396, 18 L.Ed.2d 493 (1967), Johnson’s counsel has filed a brief stating there are no grounds for relief, along with a motion to withdraw as counsel of record. We have provided the appellant with the opportunity to file a pro se supplemental brief. He has filed a supplemental brief, but no answering brief has been filed.

Our independent review of the record pursuant to Penson v. Ohio, 488 U.S. 75, 80-81, 109 S.Ct. 346, 102 L.Ed.2d 300 (1988), discloses no arguable grounds for relief on direct appeal.

Accordingly, counsel’s motion to withdraw is GRANTED. Johnson’s request to strike the Anders brief and appoint new counsel is DENIED. The district court’s judgment is AFFIRMED.