The state will auction dozens of high quality collector's items left over from the a 2008 agriculture conference during Richie Farmer's tenure as Kentucky agriculture commissioner.
A news release from current agriculture commissioner James Comer says the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources will sell 13 Remington rifles and 16 Case knives in an auction May 5th at their Frankfort headquarters with the proceeds going to help fund an urban garden project.
The specially engraved rifles and knives were intended originally as gifts for agriculture commissioners and their top aides from member states of the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture. The 2008 conference was held in Kentucky. Those knives and guns were mentioned in one charge against Farmer for abusing the power of his office. He was eventually found guilty and is serving more than two years in state prison.
"We saw this auction as a way to make something positive out of what was an unfortunate situation," Comer said. "We're pleased that we will be able to recoup some of the dollars spent on these items and put them toward an important agricultural project."
Registration and viewing will open at 8:00 a.m. EDT, with the auction itself scheduled to begin at 9:00. All items will be sold as is. paperwork and background checks must be completed onsite before the firearms can be released.
More information at the ag department's main office at 502-564-4696.
