By Rick Reeno

BoxingScene.com has just learned that undefeated junior middleweight James Kirkland was sentenced earlier today to 24 months during a sentencing hearing at a federal court in Austin, Texas. The court shaved off 6 months for time already served, and he will receive 100 days off for good behavior under the federal guidelines. When he reaches the point where six months are remaining on his sentence, Kirkland will go to a half-way house to begin training for his ring return.

Below a brief background description on the incident:

Kirkland was arrested during a traffic stop on April 19 in Austin, Texas. Kirkland's vehicle was pulled over by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. After conducting a search of the vehicle, a loaded .40-caliber Glock was discovered in the center console.

ATF agents were staking out a Saxet gun show and witnessed an exchange of money between Kirkland and his girlfriend Candice Jones. Jones used the money to purchase ammunition for a .40 caliber weapon at the show. Agents claimed that Kirkland, using his own ID, purchased the confiscated firearm on April 18 at the previously mentioned gun show. Earlier in the year, Kirkland was robbed at gunpoint. He was looking to get a weapon to protect himself.

Kirkland was still on probation for a 2003 armed robbery offense, which strictly prohibits him from purchasing and/or possessing firearms. Kirkland has been incarcerated since the arrest.