The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld the conviction of Gregory Scott Cook for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This decision, issued on October 28, 2026, affects Cook, who pleaded guilty to the charge under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). The ruling is significant as it reinforces the legal boundaries surrounding firearm possession for individuals with felony convictions.

Cook's case reached the appeals court after he was sentenced in the Northern District of Texas. His conviction has broader implications for similar cases, particularly those involving the Second Amendment rights of felons. The court's decision highlights the ongoing debate about gun rights and the legal limitations placed on individuals with prior convictions.

Background

Gregory Scott Cook was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a violation of federal law. This law prohibits individuals who have been convicted of a felony from possessing firearms. Cook pleaded guilty to the charge, which led to his conviction. Following his sentencing, Cook raised constitutional questions regarding the law under which he was convicted.

Specifically, Cook argued that 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) violates the Second Amendment and exceeds Congress's authority under the Commerce Clause. However, he acknowledged that these arguments had been rejected in past cases and were therefore likely to be dismissed. His appeal was based on the hope that a recent decision by the Fifth Circuit to rehear a related case, United States v. Squire, might provide a new legal basis for his arguments.

The Ruling

The Fifth Circuit ruled against Cook, affirming his conviction and sentence. The court stated, "Because Cook’s challenges to § 922(g)(1) are foreclosed by our precedent, his sentence is AFFIRMED." The judges emphasized that they are bound by existing legal precedents unless there is an intervening decision from the Supreme Court or a subsequent en banc decision that changes the law.

Cook's request to hold his appeal in abeyance, pending the outcome of the en banc decision in Squire, was denied. The court clarified that they would not delay their ruling based on the potential future outcome of another case. This decision reinforces the court's commitment to adhering to established legal standards until a higher court provides a different interpretation.

Impact

This ruling has significant implications for individuals with felony convictions who seek to challenge firearm possession laws. By upholding Cook's conviction, the Fifth Circuit reinforces the legal precedent that prohibits felons from possessing firearms under federal law. This decision may deter similar appeals from other convicted felons who wish to argue against the constitutionality of § 922(g)(1).

The court's decision also underscores the importance of legal precedent in the judicial system. It indicates that lower courts and appellate courts will continue to rely on established rulings unless there is a compelling reason to deviate from them. This consistency in the law is crucial for maintaining order and predictability in legal proceedings.

What's Next

Cook's conviction can be appealed to the Supreme Court, although it is unclear if he will pursue that option. The outcome of the related case, United States v. Squire, may also influence future legal arguments regarding firearm possession laws. Details were not available in the court filing regarding any pending related cases.