Charles Edward Ketcher, Jr., Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Oklahoma 2024

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – In a shocking turn of events, Charles Edward Ketcher, Jr., a 33-year-old resident of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison for illegally possessing a firearm. This brazen crime has left law enforcement officials and community members alike reeling.

The charges against Ketcher arose from an investigation by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. On March 15, 2024, Ketcher pleaded guilty to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. According to investigators, on October 14, 2023, Ketcher was captured on a surveillance camera carrying a rifle.

At the time Ketcher possessed the rifle, he knew he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. This reckless disregard for the law has brought significant attention to the need for stricter firearms regulations in the state of Oklahoma.

The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Ketcher was remanded into the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Robinson represented the United States at the sentencing hearing. The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

Ketcher's sentence is a stark reminder of the consequences of breaking the law. His 15-month prison term is a significant blow to his freedom and a testament to the dedication of law enforcement officials in Oklahoma.

The people of Tahlequah and the surrounding areas can rest a little easier knowing that Ketcher will be held accountable for his actions. However, this case also highlights the need for continued efforts to reduce crime and improve community safety in Oklahoma.

Defendant: Charles Edward Ketcher, Jr.

Criminal Charges: Felon in Possession of a Firearm

City and State: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA

Exact Date: March 15, 2024 (sentencing), October 14, 2023 (crime date)

Sentence: 15 months in prison

Defendant's Address: Tahlequah, Oklahoma

Cases like this one demonstrate the importance of community-based initiatives and partnerships between law enforcement and local organizations to prevent crime and promote public safety.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edok/pr/tahlequah-resident-sentenced-federal-firearm-crime-1