Local Constable Guilty of Gun Violations

RUSK COUNTY — Rusk County Constable Benjamin Thomas Ferrell charged with federal drug and weapons charges pleaded guilty Tuesday to the weapons count, the spokeswoman for the Eastern District of Texas confirmed Wednesday. According to the Longview News-Journal, drug distribution and drug possession conspiracy charges against Ferrell, 37, of Henderson, were dropped as part of his plea agreement in federal court, spokeswoman Davilyn Walston said. The charges coincided with his failed re-election bid in a spring primary election.

Sentencing has not been scheduled. Ferrell faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 after pleading guilty to transfer of a firearm to a prohibited person. The guilty plea amounts to a resignation from elected office.

Ferrell and his wife, Amanda Gayle Ferrell, were arrested in March by federal agents working with local investigators. The constable initially faced up to 45 years in prison on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and the firearm count. Ferrell’s wife was arrested on a state charge of manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance.