COVINGTON, Ky. – In a major blow to illegal firearms trafficking, two Northern Kentucky men have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute guns to those who couldn’t legally possess them.
Cylis Rowe, 23, and Clifton Barnett, 25, both of Covington, were sentenced by U.S. District Judge David Bunning to 124 months and 70 months in prison, respectively, for their involvement in the firearms conspiracy. Rowe’s sentence also included a count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The investigation, led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), began in 2022 after law enforcement discovered individuals selling and possessing firearms and machinegun conversion devices, also known as Glock switches, to those engaged in drug trafficking and other criminal offenses.
According to court documents, Rowe and Barnett conspired with Demarco Sturgeon, 23, to distribute the firearms illegally. Sturgeon, who was previously sentenced to 130 months in prison and five years of supervised release, admitted to making over 100 straw purchases and selling the guns directly and through Facebook Messenger.
Evidence showed that Rowe and Barnett purchased numerous firearms, which were later found at their residences, along with marijuana. Both defendants admitted to extensive firearms trafficking and regularly distributing marijuana while in possession of firearms, and stated that they possessed the firearms to protect themselves against the dangers associated with drug trafficking.
Under federal law, Rowe and Barnett must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences. Upon their release, Rowe will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years, while Barnett will be supervised for three years. The sentences were announced jointly by Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Louisville Field Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. The investigation and subsequent prosecution of Rowe and Barnett serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of engaging in illegal firearms trafficking and the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to combat this crime.
The sentences handed down to Rowe and Barnett are a testament to the dedication and perseverance of law enforcement agencies in the Eastern District of Kentucky. As we continue to work to reduce violence and crime in our communities, it is essential that those who engage in illegal activities are held accountable for their actions.
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Key Facts
- State: Kentucky
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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