Federal prosecutor part of Maynard investigation

Accused killer Tennis Maynard may be looking additional federal charges above the murder and attempted murder charges he’s now facing in Mingo County.

Maynard is charged with shooting Sheriff Eugene Crum.  The gun used in the crime, a Glock .40, was purchased at a local gun dealer by Maynard.    There are indications from Maynard’s father and others who say he had a history of mental problems including being once committed to an institution.  Under the law he is forbidden to buy, own, or possess a firearm.

However, soon after he was released from the hospital Maynard bought the gun and was cleared in the background check because the system was just being built in West Virginia and the information on his mental condition was in the process of being transferred into the system–but hadn’t reached the National Instant Check System or NICS.

Goodwin

U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin would not confirm any of the information during an appearance on MetroNews Talkline Thursday, but said if that is the case Maynard would have had to lie on the ATF application required for all gun purchases and that would constitute a federal violation.

“If that’s clear they were a prohibited person and we can prove they possessed a firearm, we have a potential federal case,” Goodwin said.

Goodwin’s office is working with the ATF on the investigation of how Maynard obtained the weapon.  He says there could be multiple charges.

“Anytime you have an individual who shouldn’t have a firearm whether they be a felon, a drug addict, or someone mentally ill, we’re interested in making sure those individuals don’t have firearms,” said Goodwin. “If they do have firearms making them accountable for it.”

Ironically records show although Maynard was cleared to buy the gun when he returned to buy a second firearm at a later date, the system flagged his case and he was denied the purchase.   





More News

News
West Virginia officials blast new EPA rules with heavier restrictions on coal, gas power plants
Under the EPA rule announced today, coal plants that plan to stay open beyond 2039 would have to cut or capture 90% of their carbon dioxide emissions by 2032.
April 25, 2024 - 1:50 pm
News
Logan Kiwanis club celebrates 100 years
Organization formed by businessmen in 1924 remains committed to same goals of serving children a century later
April 25, 2024 - 1:44 pm
News
Motivational speaker Chris Gardner to deliver Marshall commencement speech Saturday
Two ceremonies will take place at the Marshall Health Arena in Huntington.
April 25, 2024 - 12:13 pm
News
Suspect arrested in turkey hunting incident
Wayne County man charged with a pair of felonies after victim was hit by shotgun fire while hunting turkeys near Genoa, W.Va. this week.
April 25, 2024 - 11:14 am


Your Comments