Keith Bennett Gordon Studhorse II, 43, of Spokane, Washington, is headed to federal prison for 84 months after selling body armor and a loaded shotgun while legally barred from possessing either. The conviction lands another blow in the Eastern District’s relentless push against armed recidivists.
Court records reveal Studhorse, a previously convicted violent felon with a rap sheet including attempted first-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter, sold a ballistic level III vest, a Mossberg 500AT 12-gauge shotgun, and 227 rounds of ammunition in a parking lot on January 12, 2016. The deal was made under ATF surveillance using a confidential informant, sealing his fate before he even left the lot.
Charged in a two-count federal indictment, Studhorse admitted guilt on September 8, 2016, to being a previously convicted violent felon in possession of body armor and a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Judge Thomas O. Rice handed down the 7-year sentence with an additional three years of court supervision post-release.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Spokane Resident Office led the investigation after receiving a tip that Studhorse was shopping illegal gear. The controlled buy took place in the open—public parking, broad daylight—highlighting the brazen nature of the offense and the risks posed by armed felons operating in plain sight.
“Prosecuting firearms-related crimes continues to be a priority,” warned U.S. Attorney Michael C. Ormsby. “Previously convicted felons and violent felons should be aware that there are serious criminal penalties connected with possessing any firearm, ammunition and body armor.” The message is clear: in Eastern Washington, second chances don’t extend to weapons.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney George J.C. Jacobs, III, underscoring the federal government’s tight grip on repeat offenders with access to tactical gear. For Studhorse, the price of one illegal sale is seven long years behind bars.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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