CINCINNATI, OH – Terry Willis, 52, is headed back to prison for a long stretch after a chaotic foot chase and discovery of a loaded 9mm handgun, cocaine, and a substantial amount of cash. Willis was sentenced today to 210 months – over 17 years – in U.S. District Court for possession with intent to distribute illegal drugs, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime, and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
The case unfolded on May 22, 2019, when a Cincinnati Police Officer attempted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Willis. Rather than comply, Willis bolted, attempting to scale a barbed-wire fence. A struggle ensued, with Willis actively resisting arrest and repeatedly reaching for his waistband. A second officer arrived to help subdue him, issuing clear warnings to keep his hands away from his waist.
Officers discovered why Willis was so protective of that area. Secured in his waistband was a 9mm handgun loaded with a round in the chamber and an extended 30-round magazine. A search also revealed over 25 grams of cocaine, more than six grams of marijuana, and a hefty $1,600 in cash. It was a clear picture of a man dealing in danger and profiting from it.
This wasn’t Willis’s first rodeo with the law. He’s a nine-time convicted felon, with a prior conviction specifically for possessing a firearm as a felon, alongside multiple other offenses related to drug distribution and possession. Federal law clearly prohibits individuals with such a criminal history from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition – a rule Willis blatantly disregarded.
U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker, leading the Southern District of Ohio, stated the sentence sends a clear message. Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Columbus Field Division, and Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa A. Theetge joined in announcing the sentencing, handed down by U.S. District Court Judge Douglas R. Cole. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Garcia and Kelly Rossi successfully prosecuted the case.
But Willis’s troubles aren’t over. In addition to the 210-month prison term, he’ll face a decade of supervised release upon his eventual release, a constant reminder that his criminal activities have long-lasting consequences. This case highlights the ATF and Cincinnati PD’s commitment to getting guns out of the hands of repeat offenders and disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs on the streets.
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Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Weapons|Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Press Release
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