Tacoma – A 40-year-old Puyallup, Washington, man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 24 months in prison for being a felon in possession of two firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Christopher S. Hammond was arrested March 3, 2021, when a search of his apartment revealed a handgun with the serial number removed, and a rifle. Hammond is prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior criminal convictions. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle noted that Hammond blamed his offense on drug addiction. “The drug addiction doesn’t explain the offense… Drugs and firearms are a bad mix,” Judge Settle said.
According to records filed in the case, Hammond was convicted in 2013, of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was sentenced to 69 months in prison. Following prison, while on federal supervised release, Hammond possessed two additional firearms – even though he clearly knew he was prohibited from having guns. Probation officers searched Hammond’s home after a tipster sent them a photo of Hammond holding a firearm.
When he spoke to the court, Hammond said, “It took me a long time to realize that I am an addict. I need help.”
Judge Settle reduced Hammond’s sentence from the 30 months recommended by all parties to 24 months. “I see your addiction and your genuine desire to live a clean and productive life,” Judge Settle said.
Hammond pleaded guilty December 14, 2021. Following the 24-month prison term he will be on 3 years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Federal Probation Office with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF).
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Dillon.