Akron’s Cook Gets 35 Years for Meth & Cocaine

AKRON, OH – Antoine D. Cook, 46, of Akron, is facing a long stretch behind bars after a federal jury convicted him of flooding Northeast Ohio with dangerous drugs. Cook was sentenced to 420 months – a full 35 years – by U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent, a penalty reflecting both the severity of his crimes and a lengthy rap sheet.

The conviction stemmed from a bust on May 1, 2024, where authorities found Cook in possession of approximately 25 grams of methamphetamine and 3 grams of cocaine, both pre-packaged for street-level distribution. Beyond the drugs, the feds also discovered Cook illegally possessed over 80 rounds of ammunition – a significant factor given his extensive criminal history.

This wasn’t Cook’s first rodeo. Far from it. Court records reveal a pattern of escalating violence and drug dealing dating back decades. Prior convictions include multiple counts of Domestic Violence in 1996, 2010, 2012, and 2014. He also previously pled guilty to Distribution of a Controlled Substance in 2002, and was convicted of Aggravated Assault in both 2012 and 2015. In 2018, he was slapped with a Felonious Assault conviction.

Prosecutors successfully argued that Cook qualified as both a career offender and an armed career criminal, triggering a substantial sentencing enhancement. Assistant United States Attorney Peter E. Daly, of the Northern District of Ohio, hammered home the point that Cook represented a clear and present danger to the community. The judge clearly agreed.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation, with crucial support from the Ohio Adult Parole Authority. This case underscores the ATF’s focus on dismantling drug trafficking operations and holding repeat offenders accountable. The 35-year sentence sends a clear message: dealing drugs and possessing weapons as a convicted felon will not be tolerated.

Following his prison term, Cook will be subject to eight years of supervised release. Whether that will be enough to keep this career criminal from returning to his old ways remains to be seen. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on Cook’s activities, should he ever re-emerge on the streets of Akron.