Oklahoma City resident Olajuwon Markeezes Hopgood, 29, will spend the next three years in federal prison after being sentenced for lying on a federal form while attempting to purchase a firearm. The sentencing, handed down earlier this week, stems from an incident last December where Hopgood fled a sporting goods store as police arrived, leaving behind a crucial piece of evidence: a falsified ATF Form 4473.
According to court documents, on December 28, 2022, Bethany Police responded to a call from the owner of a local sporting goods store reporting suspicious activity. Hopgood was actively filling out the necessary paperwork – ATF Form 4473 – to buy a gun when he bolted after spotting the officers. The investigation quickly revealed a far more sinister plot: Hopgood and several associates, including minors, were allegedly preparing to rob the store.
The completed Form 4473 left behind by Hopgood claimed he had never been convicted of a felony. This was a blatant lie. Public records show a lengthy criminal history, including first and second-degree burglary convictions in Oklahoma County District Court (case number CF-2011-4195), as well as convictions for aggravated assault with a firearm and possession of a firearm after a prior felony conviction (case number CF-2015-2826). Hopgood pleaded guilty to the false statement charge on May 19, 2023, admitting to knowingly deceiving federal authorities.
U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin didn’t mince words at the sentencing. He highlighted the seriousness of the offense and Hopgood’s history of violence in handing down a 36-month prison sentence, followed by three years of supervised release. The judge clearly signaled that lying to obtain a firearm, particularly with a background like Hopgood’s, will not be tolerated.
Federal law carries stiff penalties for making false statements related to firearm purchases. The ATF requires prospective buyers to complete Form 4473, detailing their background and eligibility. Knowingly falsifying this information can lead to felony charges and up to ten years in prison. Licensed firearms dealers also face prosecution for selling to prohibited individuals or failing to maintain accurate records.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Bethany Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case, which is also part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, aimed at reducing violent crime. Those with questions about firearm eligibility can visit www.atf.gov or contact their local ATF field office.
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