Four-Time Convicted Felon in Panama City Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm and Narcotics Charges

Kendrick Parham, a four-time felon, faces 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to illegal firearm possession. Jail phone calls led police to the weapon.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 19, 2026, 5:27 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from WJHG

A Federal Guilty Plea in Panama City

The legal proceedings for a local man with an extensive criminal history reached a critical stage in federal court this week. Kendrick Parham, a 47 year old resident of Panama City, formally entered a guilty plea for the illegal possession of a firearm. As a four-time convicted felon, Parham is strictly prohibited under federal law from owning or handling any type of weaponry. The plea follows a coordinated effort between local and federal law enforcement agencies to address repeat offenders involved in both narcotics and firearms violations within the Florida Panhandle.

Discovery of Methamphetamine and Evidence Collection

The investigation into Parham’s activities began with a targeted search of his home conducted by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). During the initial entry, investigators reportedly located a quantity of methamphetamine. While the narcotics discovery provided immediate grounds for further scrutiny, it was the subsequent forensic and digital investigation that led authorities to the concealed firearm. According to federal prosecutors, the illegal weapon was not initially found but was located after Parham provided specific details about its existence.

Incriminating Statements Over Monitored Jail Lines

A significant portion of the evidence against Parham was self-incriminating, gathered while he was already in custody. Investigators noted that during a recorded jail phone call, Parham made several statements regarding the location and possession of the firearm. Law enforcement officials frequently monitor these communications for security and investigative leads, and in this instance, Parham’s own words provided the necessary intelligence for deputies to recover the weapon. This lapse in operational security effectively bridged the gap between the initial drug discovery and the more severe federal firearm charges.