Former Lawyer from Northern Kentucky Indicted on Federal Murder-for-Hire and False Statement Charges

COVINGTON, KY — Chase Cox, a 33-year-old man from Covington and former lawyer, was indicted on Thursday by a federal grand jury on charges of murder-for-hire and making false statements to federal investigators.

According to the indictment, between approximately September 25, 2026, and November 3, 2026, Cox allegedly utilized the mail and an interstate commerce facility to arrange the murder of a victim. The scheme involved an agreement or promise to pay at least $500 in exchange for the killing.

Further, the indictment states that on October 8, 2026, Cox knowingly made a materially false statement to agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). When questioned about whether he posed a threat to the victim, Cox denied any intent to cause harm, asserting he would never hurt the individual. The indictment asserts this statement was false, as Cox was allegedly attempting to have the victim, identified as R.B., murdered on his behalf.

United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Jason Parman, commented on the indictment, stating, “The allegations in this indictment describe an especially disturbing effort to arrange the murder of an individual and then conceal that intent through false statements to federal investigators. Threats of violence and attempts to carry them out will be taken seriously and aggressively investigated.”

John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Louisville Field Division, emphasized the gravity of the charges, saying, “Conspiring to commit murder and lying to federal agents are serious offenses. ATF and our law enforcement partners remain committed to investigating threats of violence and holding those responsible accountable.”

FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the Louisville Field Office added, “These charges should be a reminder for anyone planning violence in our community that justice will find you. Thank you to our incredible federal and state colleagues whose daily vigilance helps keep the Commonwealth safe.”

The indictment was jointly announced by Jason Parman, John Nokes, and Olivia Olson. The investigation leading to the indictment was conducted by the ATF and FBI, with the indictment presented to the grand jury by Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew Spievack.

Cox is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court on December 9, 2026. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation. Cox is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Official reference: View the original document.