Charles Eugene Franklin, 34, of Murfreesboro, Tenn., was sentenced yesterday, by United States District Court Judge Todd J. Campbell, to 188 months in federal prison for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, announced David Rivera, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. Franklin was initially charged in October 2013 and pleaded guilty in August 2014.
“When repeat offenders continue to engage in criminal conduct, without regard for previous punishment, we will bring federal resources and invoke appropriate federal statutes as we seek to remove them from the community for a long period of time," said U.S. Attorney David Rivera. “There is no parole in the federal system."
Franklin has a lengthy criminal history including multiple prior felony convictions for drug offenses in Middle Tennessee. As a result of those convictions, Franklin is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
On Oct. 3, 2013, law enforcement officials executed two search warrants of residences in Murfreesboro that Franklin had ties to. Officers seized more than 47 grams of cocaine and nearly 80 grams of cocaine base, packaged in multiple separate bundles, as well as $5,797 in cash, a set of digital scales and a loaded Glock.357 caliber pistol that was later determined to be stolen from a Tennessee State Trooper.
ATF Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Gerido remarked, “This focused investigation will have a lasting impact on reducing firearms related violence and taking drugs off the streets of the Murfreesboro area. ATF’s “Frontline" strategy to reduce violent crime demonstrates the collective resources of ATF and the Murfreesboro Police Department to identify violent criminals who lessen the quality of life in our neighborhoods."
“This is another example of how our detectives and federal agents can partner to better protect the citizens of Murfreesboro," said Murfreesboro Chief of Police Glenn Chrisman. “Working together, our agencies brought an individual who was a convicted felon and known drug dealer to justice, where he will face the consequences of his illegal activities. We will continue working with our federal law enforcement partners to place violent criminals behind bars."
This matter was investigated by the Murfreesboro Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Montminy.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
