OCALA, FL – Cody Richard Hawk, 51, of Ocklawaha, is facing a return trip to prison after being indicted on federal charges for possessing a firearm and ammunition despite a lengthy and violent criminal history. United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg unsealed the indictment today, sending a clear message that repeat offenders will be held accountable.
The charges stem from an incident on October 9, 2022, when Hawk was found to be in possession of a Savage Arms rifle and Winchester ammunition. This isn’t Hawk’s first rodeo with the law – far from it. The indictment details a rap sheet that reads like a nightmare for law enforcement: a previous conviction for second-degree murder with a firearm, statutory rape, being a felon in possession of a handgun, failing to comply with registration laws, and possession of methamphetamine. Federal law explicitly prohibits individuals with felony convictions from owning firearms or ammunition.
Hawk’s history paints a disturbing picture of escalating criminal behavior. The murder conviction alone should have been a life sentence deterrent, but clearly wasn’t. Sources within the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, involved in the initial investigation, express frustration that Hawk was back on the streets, potentially endangering the public. “This guy is a walking disaster,” one source stated, speaking on condition of anonymity. “He’s got no respect for the law, and he’s a danger to everyone around him.”
If convicted on the current charges, Hawk faces a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison. While a conviction isn’t a guarantee, the evidence appears stacked against him, given his prior convictions and the clear violation of federal law. The prosecution will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg, a seasoned prosecutor known for her aggressive approach to violent crime cases.
The investigation into Hawk’s activities was a collaborative effort between the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). This case is a key component of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through coordinated law enforcement efforts and community partnerships. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN strategy in May 2021, focusing on building trust within communities, supporting violence prevention programs, and prioritizing strategic enforcement.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and Hawk is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. However, with a criminal history as extensive and violent as Hawk’s, the residents of Ocala, and the federal government, will be watching this case closely. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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