Cody Richard Hawk, Gun Possession by a Convicted Felon, Florida 2022

OCALA, FL – Cody Richard Hawk, 51, of Ocklawaha, is facing federal charges after authorities discovered he was illegally holding a Savage Arms rifle and Winchester ammunition. The indictment, unsealed today, alleges Hawk possessed the weapon on October 9, 2022, a clear violation of federal law given his extensive criminal history.

Hawk’s rap sheet reads like a nightmare. He’s a convicted murderer, having previously been found guilty of second-degree murder with a firearm. Beyond that, he’s also served time for statutory rape, being a felon in possession of a handgun – a repeat offense, apparently – failure to comply with registration laws, and possession of methamphetamine. Federal law explicitly prohibits individuals with felony convictions from owning firearms or ammunition.

The case originated with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, who flagged Hawk as a prohibited possessor. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) then took the lead on the investigation, building the case that resulted in today’s indictment. If convicted on the charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, Hawk faces a stiff sentence: up to 15 years in federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida announced the indictment, but stressed the standard legal caution: an indictment is merely an accusation. Hawk is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg will be prosecuting the case.

Federal officials are framing this case as part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by coordinating efforts between law enforcement at all levels and the communities they serve. The program, recently bolstered by a Department of Justice strategy, focuses on fostering trust, supporting community organizations, and strategic enforcement.

While the details of how Hawk came to possess the firearm remain unclear, this case underscores the ongoing challenge of keeping guns out of the hands of those legally barred from owning them. The Tampa Field Division of the ATF played a crucial role in the investigation. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves through the federal court system.

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