Defendant Had Crack Cocaine, Firearms and
Nearly $500,000 in Cash When Arrested
DALLAS - Lawrence Edward Knox, 42, of Dallas, was sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle to 228 months (19 years) in federal prison following his guilty plea in December 2012 to one count of possession with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base (crack cocaine) and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense. Today’s announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Sarah R. Saldaña of the Northern District of Texas.
According to documents filed in the case, the investigation began when law enforcement received information that an individual had obtained cocaine from Knox's residence on Saddleridge Drive in Dallas. In early August 2012, Dallas Police SWAT executed a search warrant at his residence and found approximately 2.7 pounds of crack cocaine, four firearms and $469,302 in cash. They also found pans, a strainer and other utensils in the kitchen that are used to manufacture crack cocaine. Knox, who was home at the time of the search, admitted the drugs and currency were his and was arrested.
According to the factual resume filed in the case, prior to his arrest, Knox had been convicted in this district on the federal offense of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute.
As part of his plea agreement with the government, Knox will forfeit not only the cash and firearms, but also a 2004 Land Rover, furniture and televisions.
The case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Taly Haffar prosecuted.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
