New Orleans man sentenced to 6 years in prison for ‘straw purchase’ at gun show

A convicted felon from New Orleans has been sentenced to almost six years in prison for paying an acquaintance to buy a pistol for him at a Kenner gun show, according to U.S. Attorney Jim Letten. Michael Hooker was barred from possessing guns after two 2002 convictions in New Orleans for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine.

But at the Great Southern Gun and Knife Show at the Pontchartrain Center on March 19, 2011, federal agent David Millen saw Hooker, William Hollins and William Smith Jr. approach a table of guns for sale. Hooker picked up a gun and talked with Smith, who then bought the 7.62-caliber pistol. Hollins bought ammunition.

Hooker had put up $500 for the purchase, which totalled $463. Smith kept the difference, according to court records.

The three men got into a car together and drove off. Kenner police stopped them nearby. Smith admitted he bought the gun for Hooker, which makes for an illegal “straw purchase,” authorities said.

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