Jury Convicts Tulsa Man of Gun Charge

On Thursday, a federal jury convicted Ira Lee Wilkins, 38, of Tulsa, for being a felon in possession of a Hi-Point C9 9 mm pistol and associated ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores.

“Felons who possess firearms pose a threat to the safety and security of our community. This prosecution was a part of our Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. I am thankful for the service of the jurors. They rendered their verdict, and Mr. Wilkins was found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt,” said U.S. Attorney Shores. “The evidence in this case was strong, including a Tulsa Police officer’s body-worn camera. I commend the work of the investigative agencies and federal prosecutors who pursued justice in this case.”

In May 2019, a local business contacted authorities after a disturbance involving the defendant. Officers from the Tulsa Police Department answered the call and discovered that Wilkins had outstanding warrants and was previously convicted of multiple felonies. Upon his arrest, officers found the loaded pistol in his front pants’ pocket.

The Tulsa Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Proctor and Shannon Cozzoni prosecuted the case.