Federal Prison Sentencing for OKC Felon Due to Illegal Firearm Possession and Related Crimes

Oklahoma City man Sentenced to Over Seven Years for Illegal Firearm Possession

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Davy Eugene King, a 52-year-old resident of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to a considerable 90-month term in federal prison. The sentence stems from his unlawful possession of a firearm, a violation of federal law given his extensive criminal history. United States Attorney Robert J. Troester announced the sentencing on September 17,2025.

Details of the Incident and Arrest

The events leading to King’s conviction unfolded on February 2 and 3, 2025. Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) Officers responded to reports of a shooting at a residence. Witnesses reported that King had engaged in a heated argument, then discharged a firearm both at individuals and into the air before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained.

Police quickly located King at a nearby gas station. Authorities observed him brandishing a firearm before discarding it across the counter ahead of his arrest. This act formed a crucial part of the evidence against him.

A History of Felony Convictions

Court records reveal a lengthy pattern of criminal behavior. King has prior convictions in Oklahoma County District Court, including a second-degree murder conviction from 1990 (case number CF-1990-5376), a 2014 conviction for possessing a stolen vehicle (CF-2014-4630), a 2014 attempted grand larceny conviction (CF-2014-5432), and a 2014 conviction for domestic abuse with aggravated assault (CF-2014-2946). These prior convictions disqualified him from legally possessing a firearm.

Guilty Plea and Sentencing

A federal Grand Jury indicted King on March 4, 2025, charging him with illegal firearm possession due to his past felony convictions. He entered a guilty plea on April 19, 2025, acknowledging his unlawful possession of the weapon.

During the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Scott L.Palk considered King’s extensive criminal history, specifically highlighting his previous violent and domestic violence offenses. Judge Palk underscored the severity of the crime, noting the irresponsible act of discharging the firearm alongside the illegal possession itself. Along with the 90-month prison sentence,King will serve a three-year term of supervised release after his incarceration.

Collaborative Law Enforcement Effort

The examination was a joint effort between the Oklahoma City Police department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Laney Ellis, representing the City of Oklahoma City with funding from a project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) grant, prosecuted the case. PSN is a national program designed to unite all levels of law enforcement and communities to combat violent crime and gun violence.

Key Fact	Detail
Defendant	Davy Eugene King, 52
Sentence	90 months in federal prison + 3 years supervised release
Charges	Illegal possession of a firearm (felony conviction)
Incident Date	february 2-3, 2025
Prosecuting Attorney	Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Laney Ellis

Did You Know? According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, individuals with prior felony convictions are substantially more likely to be involved in future violent crimes.

This case falls under “Operation Shots Fired,” a localized implementation of the Department of Justice’s PSN initiative focused on addressing gun violence in the Western District of Oklahoma by targeting individuals who discharge firearms during criminal activities.

Understanding Federal Firearm Laws

Federal law prohibits individuals convicted of a felony from possessing firearms. This regulation aims to remove weapons from the hands of those deemed a higher risk to public safety.Penalties for violating this law can be severe, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. The ATF plays a critical role in enforcing these laws and investigating illegal firearm trafficking. Recent data from the ATF shows an increase in prosecutions for illegal firearm possession over the past five years, reflecting a heightened focus on gun crime reduction nationwide.

What are your thoughts on the effectiveness of programs like Project Safe Neighborhoods? Do you believe longer sentences are a deterrent to gun crime?

What resources does teh Bureau of Prisons offer for inmates to prepare for release?

Understanding Federal Firearm Charges in Oklahoma

Oklahoma City (OKC) and the surrounding areas have seen a consistent focus on federal firearm prosecutions. Illegal firearm possession, often coupled with other offenses, triggers significant penalties under federal law. this article details the sentencing process, potential charges, and factors influencing the length of a federal prison sentence for OKC felons convicted of these crimes. Key terms include federal firearm offenses, Oklahoma sentencing guidelines, illegal gun possession, and federal prison time.

Common Federal Firearm Charges

Several federal statutes address illegal firearm possession. Here are some of the most frequently encountered in the OKC area:

* 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1): Prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms. This is a very common charge.

* 18 U.S.C. § 922(c): Deals with prohibited persons – individuals with domestic violence restraining orders, those illegally in the US, and others – possessing firearms.

* 18 U.S.C. § 924(c): Addresses the use or carrying of a firearm during and in relation to another crime (drug trafficking, robbery, etc.). This carries a mandatory minimum sentence.

* 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(6): Concerns straw purchasing – buying a firearm for someone prohibited from owning one.

These charges often overlap. For example,a felon found with a gun while also committing a drug offence could face charges under both § 922(g)(1) and § 924(c). Understanding these federal gun laws is crucial.

Sentencing Guidelines & Factors Influencing Prison Time

Federal sentencing isn’t arbitrary. It’s guided by the United States Sentencing Guidelines (USSG). These guidelines calculate a sentencing range based on:

1. Base Offense Level: Determined by the specific crime (e.g., illegal firearm possession).
2. Specific Offense Characteristics: Factors like the type of firearm, prior criminal history, and weather the firearm was used in another crime.
3. Victim-related Adjustments: If someone was injured, this increases the sentence.
4. Offender Characteristics: Criminal history, acceptance of obligation (pleading guilty and cooperating), and other factors.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

Certain firearm charges, particularly those involving use during another crime (§ 924(c)), carry mandatory minimum sentences.These are non-negotiable. For example:

* 10-year mandatory minimum: For using a firearm in a crime of violence or drug trafficking.

* 5-year mandatory minimum: For carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

These mandatory minimums substantially impact the length of federal sentences.

Role of the judge & Sentencing Disparities

While the USSG provides a range, the judge has discretion within that range.They consider factors like:

* Defendant’s background: Family situation, employment history, and rehabilitation potential.

* Severity of the crime: The judge assesses the harm caused by the offense.

* Cooperation with law enforcement: Providing facts can lead to a reduced sentence.

* Sentencing disparities: Judges are aware of similar cases and strive for consistency.

Real-World Examples: OKC Federal Firearm Cases

* Case 1 (2023): An OKC man with a prior felony conviction was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison after being found in possession of a stolen handgun. He received a sentence at the lower end of the guideline range due to his acceptance of responsibility.

* Case 2 (2024): A woman in Oklahoma City was sentenced to 12 years after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm while committing a robbery. The § 924(c) charge triggered a mandatory minimum.

* Case 3 (2022): A man involved in straw purchasing firearms for individuals with criminal records received a 5-year sentence.

These cases demonstrate the range of penalties and the impact of specific charges. Searching for Oklahoma federal court records can provide further examples.

Potential Benefits of Legal Representation

Facing federal firearm charges is a serious matter. Experienced federal criminal defense attorneys can:

* Negotiate with prosecutors: Attempt to reduce charges or secure a plea bargain.

* Challenge evidence: Suppress illegally obtained evidence.

* Present mitigating factors: Highlight the defendant’s positive attributes and circumstances.

* Argue for a lower sentence: Advocate for a sentence within the USSG range that is fair and just.

Practical Tips for Avoiding Federal Firearm Charges

* Know your rights: Understand the laws regarding firearm ownership and possession in Oklahoma and under federal law.

* Avoid prohibited activities: Do not engage in illegal activities while possessing a firearm.

* Do not straw purchase: Never buy a firearm for someone else.

* seek legal counsel: If you have questions about firearm laws, consult with an attorney.

Resources for Further Information

* United States Sentencing commission: https://www.ussc.gov/

* Bureau of Prisons: [https://wwwbopgov[https://wwwbopgov