Tina Marie Cochran, Gun Trafficking, VA 2024

ALEXANDRIA, VA – A Fredericksburg couple is facing federal prison time after pleading guilty yesterday to a scheme that put firearms into the hands of a man previously convicted of domestic violence. Tina Marie Cochran, 41, and Brant Wilson Shorden, 43, knowingly skirted the law, fueling the cycle of violence that plagues our communities.

The case, spearheaded by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, reveals a blatant disregard for public safety. According to court documents, Cochran acted as a straw purchaser, illegally acquiring multiple firearms on behalf of Shorden, who was prohibited from owning them due to three prior misdemeanor convictions for domestic violence right here in Virginia. This wasn’t a one-time deal; it was a calculated effort to arm a dangerous individual.

“Every straw purchased firearm is a gun that can wind up in the hands of a prohibited person,” stated U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger. “We will continue to use federal firearms laws to prosecute straw purchasers and hold them accountable for their role in trafficking illegally purchased firearms.” The ATF’s relentless investigation exposed the couple’s actions and brought them to justice.

The evidence didn’t stop at the purchases. Investigators discovered Shorden brazenly flaunted the illegally obtained weapons, posting pictures and videos online of himself and Cochran shooting and brandishing the firearms at their Fredericksburg residence. This wasn’t about self-defense; it was a display of power and a clear indication of Shorden’s disregard for the law.

Shorden pleaded guilty to possessing firearms following a conviction of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and now faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Cochran admitted to making false statements regarding the firearm purchases and could receive up to 5 years behind bars. Both are scheduled to be sentenced on September 6th. While maximum penalties are often quoted, federal sentencing guidelines and other factors will ultimately determine the final length of their confinement.

This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice initiative focused on reducing violent crime. PSN isn’t just about arrests; it’s about a comprehensive strategy involving law enforcement, community organizations, and reentry programs to break the cycle of violence. The announcement was made jointly by Terwilliger and Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Washington Field Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas U. Murphy II is handling the prosecution. Court documents related to Case No. 1:19-cr-138 are available on PACER and the District Court’s website.