Freddie Antwon Thompson, a 34-year-old resident of Rock Hill, has been sentenced to over 14 years in federal prison. He pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute marijuana and crack cocaine.
The court was presented with evidence showing that on November 2, 2022, officers from the Rock Hill Police Department found Thompson with a loaded firearm, ammunition, marijuana, crack cocaine, and oxycodone during a routine traffic stop. When arrested on federal charges, he was again found with another loaded firearm, more marijuana, and a digital scale.
Thompson's previous felony convictions prohibited him from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law. His criminal record includes offenses such as distribution of imitation controlled substances, distribution of marijuana and ecstasy, trafficking in methamphetamine and cocaine base, unlawful carrying of weapons, unlawful possession of stolen firearms, and resisting arrest. These prior drug convictions led to his sentencing as a career offender.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Thompson to 170 months in prison followed by six years of court-ordered supervision. The federal system does not allow for parole.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a strategy enhancing PSN with principles focused on community trust and legitimacy, supporting violence prevention organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Rock Hill Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.