HULBERT, OKLAHOMA – Billy Eugene Shepard, Jr., 31, of Hulbert, Oklahoma, has admitted to a crime that puts him back behind bars. Shepard pleaded guilty this week to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, a federal charge carrying a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison.
The case stems from an incident on or about July 12, 2023, where authorities discovered Shepard knowingly held a firearm despite a previous felony conviction – a conviction serious enough to warrant a prison sentence exceeding one year. The specifics of that prior conviction haven’t been publicly released, but it’s enough to disqualify him from legally owning a weapon.
The investigation that led to Shepard’s plea was a joint effort between the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Details of how law enforcement initially identified Shepard and the firearm are currently sealed, but sources confirm the investigation was thorough and focused on known repeat offenders.
U.S. Magistrate Judge D. Edward Snow accepted Shepard’s guilty plea and has ordered a presentence investigation report to be compiled. This report will provide Judge Snow with a detailed background of Shepard’s criminal history, personal circumstances, and other relevant factors to consider during sentencing. The report will heavily influence the final length of Shepard’s prison term.
Shepard is currently in the custody of the United States Marshal Service, awaiting his sentencing hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Bondura is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, led by Christopher J. Wilson. Bondura has a reputation for securing lengthy sentences in similar firearm cases.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on Shepard’s sentencing. This conviction serves as a reminder that federal agencies are actively pursuing individuals who illegally possess firearms, particularly those with prior criminal records. The Eastern District of Oklahoma remains a hotspot for weapons-related offenses, and the ATF is heavily involved in cracking down on these crimes.
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