Hillsboro man sentenced to community control in firearms case

A Hillsboro man was sentenced to community control recently after pleading guilty to improperly handling firearms in a motor vehicle.

As previously reported, Hayden L. Knisley, 19, was indicted by a Highland County grand jury on that fourth-degree felony charge, plus a forfeiture specification, in January. 

It is alleged that on or about Nov. 20, Knisley “knowingly transported or had a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle in such a manner that the firearm was accessible to the operator or a passenger without leaving the vehicle.” The firearm allegedly in his possession is subject to forfeiture.

According to a bill of particulars, a Highland County Sheriff’s deputy initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Knisley on or about Nov. 20 for an unrelated matter. During the traffic stop, it is alleged that two loaded weapons — a revolver and a pistol — were located inside the vehicle, with Knisley and a passenger acknowledging that both belonged to Knisley. Two spent bullets were also allegedly located in Knisley’s pocket. 

Court records show Knisley pleaded guilty to the charge Feb. 18, with the sentencing hearing held April 1. Highland County Common Pleas Court Judge Rocky Coss sentenced Knisley to three years of community control and ordered both firearms forfeited to the Highland County Sheriff.

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