Phillip O’Neal McCoy, a 45-year-old resident of West Columbia, has been sentenced to more than six years in federal prison after being convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to information presented in court, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) identified McCoy as a felon involved in illegal firearms and narcotics sales in the West Columbia area. On January 5, 2024, McCoy distributed crack cocaine while also possessing other controlled substances. Five days later, on January 10, he sold a loaded semiautomatic pistol while again having additional controlled substances.
Federal law prohibits individuals with certain prior convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition. McCoy’s criminal history includes convictions for pointing and presenting a firearm, first-degree assault and battery, domestic violence, and multiple offenses related to distributing controlled substances. At the time of his most recent offense, he was on probation.
U.S. District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced McCoy to 77 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole available under the federal system.
The case was investigated by the ATF and the West Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.
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