Darrick Lamont Smith, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Oklahoma 2023

OKLAHOMA CITY – Darrick Lamont Smith, 48, a repeat offender with a lengthy criminal history, is headed to federal prison for 150 months – more than 12 years – after admitting to illegally possessing firearms and an unregistered silencer. The sentencing, handed down December 13th by U.S. District Judge Charles B. Goodwin, underscores the continued federal crackdown on individuals who flout gun laws despite prior felony convictions.

The case began unfolding in January 2022, when investigators discovered Smith possessing a cache of six firearms. A subsequent federal grand jury indictment in October 2022 revealed he also possessed an unregistered silencer, effectively turning legal weapons into ghost guns. Several of the firearms were traced back to previous thefts, adding another layer of criminality to the case. Smith, who also goes by William Louis McCollum, ultimately pleaded guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm in February 2023.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Goodwin didn’t mince words, citing Smith’s “demonstrated willingness to commit violence” and emphasizing the need to protect the public. The judge also highlighted Smith’s extensive history of drug and firearm offenses, painting a picture of a hardened criminal who repeatedly disregarded the law. Smith’s possession of high-capacity magazines, including a 50-round drum, further fueled concerns about his potential for harm.

Court records reveal a troubling pattern of criminal behavior. Smith’s past convictions include possession of cocaine base with intent to distribute (Oklahoma County, 1992), assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (Oklahoma County, 1999), aggravated robbery (Wichita County, Texas, 2000), and prior firearm and drug offenses (Oklahoma County, 2014). This wasn’t a first-time offender simply making a mistake; it was a calculated risk by someone already deeply entrenched in a life of crime.

The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly successfully prosecuted the case, securing the lengthy sentence that authorities hope will finally remove Smith from the streets. This case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Department of Justice initiative aimed at reducing violent crime through targeted enforcement.

With Smith now facing over a decade behind bars, authorities are sending a clear message: illegally possessing firearms will not be tolerated, especially by those already convicted of serious crimes. The focus remains on disrupting the flow of illegal weapons and holding accountable individuals who pose a threat to public safety in Oklahoma City and beyond. The three years of supervised release following his prison term will likely be closely monitored, given Smith’s extensive criminal background.

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