Phillip O’Neal McCoy, a 45-year-old resident of West Columbia, has been sentenced to over six years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to evidence presented in court, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives identified McCoy as a felon involved in the illegal sale of firearms and narcotics within the West Columbia area. On January 5, 2024, McCoy distributed crack cocaine while also possessing other controlled substances. Five days later, on January 10, 2024, he sold a loaded semiautomatic pistol while again possessing additional controlled substances.
Federal law prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition. McCoy’s previous convictions include pointing and presenting a firearm, first-degree assault and battery, domestic violence, and multiple offenses related to distributing controlled substances. At the time of his latest offense, he was also on probation.
U.S. District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced McCoy to 77 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole available in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the West Columbia Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariyana Gore prosecuted the case.
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