Covington, Ky. – Federal prosecutors announced Thursday that former lawyer Chase Cox, 33, has been indicted by a grand jury in the Eastern District of Kentucky on charges of conspiring to commit murder‑for‑hire and making false statements to federal agents.
Alleged plot and federal charges
According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, investigators say Cox attempted to pay at least $500 to an unknown individual to carry out a killing. The alleged solicitation occurred between Sept. 25 and Nov. 3, 2026, and involved the use of the mail and a facility of interstate commerce, which brings the case under federal jurisdiction.
Cox is charged with two counts of conspiracy to commit murder‑for‑hire and one count of making false statements to federal investigators. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Law‑enforcement response
ATF Special Agent in Charge John Nokes emphasized that the agency, together with the FBI and other partners, remains committed to investigating threats of violence and holding those responsible accountable. “Conspiring to commit murder and lying to federal agents are serious offenses,” Nokes said.
The FBI and ATF say they approached Cox in October to discuss the matter, and he denied being a threat. The indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in Covington on Thursday.
Next steps in the legal process
Cox is scheduled to appear for an arraignment in federal court on Dec. 9. At that hearing, he will be formally advised of the charges and will have the opportunity to enter a plea.
The case underscores the ongoing vigilance of federal law‑enforcement agencies in addressing violent conspiracies that cross state lines. Residents of Northern Kentucky are reminded that any knowledge of similar threats should be reported promptly to local or federal authorities.
Community impact
While the alleged crime did not occur within a public institution, the indictment serves as a reminder of the importance of community safety and the role of federal agencies in protecting citizens from violent schemes. Local officials have not commented further, pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings.
Updates will be provided as the case develops.
Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.
