Berkeley County woman Mary Virginia Cook, 26, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, has been sentenced to five years’ probation for aiding and abetting a false statement during the purchase of firearms.
Cook pleaded guilty to the charge in July 2019. She admitted to making false statements when buying two handguns, a .40 caliber pistol and a 9mm pistol, in Berkeley County in February 2018.
The investigation into Cook’s activities was a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a national effort to reduce violent crime. PSN brings together law enforcement and community stakeholders to identify and address violent crime problems in their areas.
Cook’s case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara K. Omps-Botteicher. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Martinsburg Police Department assisted in the investigation.
U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced Cook’s sentencing. Chief U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided over the case.
PSN has been shown to be effective in reducing violent crime, and the program focuses its enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with local prevention and reentry programs.
Cook’s sentencing is a reminder that making false statements when purchasing firearms can have serious consequences. It is vital for individuals to be truthful when engaging in such transactions.
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- Ohio Man Copped Gun Charge, Gets 46 Months · Ohio
- Etavious J. Milton Faces Federal Gun Possession Charge, Tallahassee… · West Virginia
- Joshua Jackson Gets 70 Months for Gun Pipeline to Camden Drug Crew · West Virginia
- Fairmont Man Kyle Kuroski Gets 70 Months for Gun Possession · Ohio
- Arian O’Connor Gets 10 Years for Illegal Firearm Possession · Ohio
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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