A man from Crofton, Kentucky, has been sentenced to six years and five months in federal prison for illegal firearm possession. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Sheriff Tyler DeArmond of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office.
Earl Ray Cook, Jr., aged 27, received his sentence after being found with a Taurus model G3C 9mm handgun and ammunition on January 29, 2024, in Christian County, Kentucky. As per court documents, Cook was prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous felony convictions.
Cook's criminal history includes a conviction on June 8, 2016, in Christian Circuit Court for first-degree possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia while armed. He was also convicted on February 12, 2018, in Daviess Circuit Court for theft-related offenses and first-degree possession of methamphetamine. On July 28, 2022, he faced convictions for third-degree assault and fleeing or evading police.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Christian County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth A. Hancock prosecuted the case.
This sentencing 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. Launched on May 26, 2021, the Department's strategy focuses on fostering community trust and legitimacy while supporting organizations that prevent violence.
There is no parole available within the federal system.