Tampa Field Division
Photo by Peter Stewart as part of the Tampa Public Art Collection
Welcome to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Tampa Field Division. Our Division is responsible for ATF criminal enforcement and industry regulatory activities in 58 of the 67 counties in the State of Florida. The ATF Tampa Field Division encompasses over 44,370 sq. miles with a population of more than 12 million people. The Tampa Field Division consists of two Federal Judicial Districts, the Northern and Middle Judicial Districts of Florida.
Our dedicated workforce is comprised of special agents, investigators, auditors, technicians and support staff. ATF is committed to reducing violent crime in our neighborhoods. ATF is dedicated to combating firearm violence by focusing our investigative efforts on armed violent repeat offenders, career criminals, gun traffickers and gangs. We also work in partnership with other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies throughout Florida to accomplish this mission.
Explosives and arson enforcement is an integral part of ATF’s overall violent crime reduction strategy. ATF special agents combat arson and explosives related crimes by conducting complex independent investigations and by working in partnership with local and state fire investigators and police bomb squads.
ATF is responsible for regulating the firearms and explosives industries. Our industry operations investigators work to ensure that firearms are properly transferred and that explosives are stored and conveyed in accordance with the law.
We encourage all residents to get involved and assist us in our goal of reducing crime in our communities. Give us a call and let us know what we can do for you. Our phone number is (813) 202-7300.
Virginia O’Brien
Division Management Team
- Virginia O’Brien
- Special Agent In Charge (SAC)
- John F. Ryan
- Assistant Special Agent In Charge (ASAC)
- Scott McCampbell
- Assistant Special Agent In Charge (ASAC)
- Colleen M. Then
- Director of Industry Operations (DIO)
- Vacant
- Public Information Officer (PIO)
Division Contact Information
Receive Tampa Press Release Updates
23–Year Old Manatee County Man Sentenced to More than 19 Years in Federal Prison
January 6, 2012
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez–Covington today sentenced Antwon Stuckey (23, Palmetto) to 235 months (19 years, 7 months) in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Because of his extensive criminal history dating back to age 12, Stuckey was sentenced under the Armed Career Criminal Act. Stuckey pled guilty on January 31, 2010.More »
Federal Complaint Filed in Arson of American Family Planning Clinic in Penscola
January 5, 2012
PENSACOLA, Fla. — Bobby Joe Rogers, 41, of Pensacola, has been charged in a federal complaint with one count of Damaging a Building by Fire or Explosive, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i). United States Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Timothy issued an arrest warrant based on the complaint and supporting affidavit filed today, which charges Rogers with the arson of the American Family Planning Clinic at 6770 North 9th Avenue in Pensacola on Jan. 1. If subsequently indicted by a grand jury and convicted at trial, Rogers faces a possible 20 year prison term.More »
Orlando Man Sentenced to More than 44 Years for Armed Robbery of CVS and Armed Carjacking
January 4, 2012
Tampa, FL — United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces today that Senior United States District Judge Susan C. Bucklew sentenced Joshua Michael Wilkes (29, Orlando) to 44 years and 7 months in federal prison for the armed robbery of a Tampa CVS Pharmacy and subsequent armed carjacking. Wilkes pled guilty on October 25, 2011.More »
Orlando Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Possession of a Machine Gun and Grenade Launcher While Operating a Marijuana Grow House
December 22, 2011
Orlando, Florida – U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Gregory A. Presnell today sentenced Daniel Martinez (29, Orlando) to 30 years in federal prison for manufacturing marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a machine gun. Martinez was found guilty by a jury on August 10, 2011.More »
Texas Murder Suspect Sentenced to 35 Years for Federal Gun Crime
December 2, 2011
Jacksonville, FL — United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard today sentenced Archery Overstreet (52, Houston, Texas) to 35 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.More »
Pasco County Man Senteced to 31 Years in Federal Prison
December 2, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday today sentenced Michael Allen Lind (48, Port Richey) to 31 years in federal prison for two counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and two counts of using a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Lind pled guilty on August 26, 2011.More »
Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to Eleven Years
November 29, 2011
Jacksonville, FL — United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard yesterday sentenced Roland Martin (29, Jacksonville) to eleven years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute marihuana and more than 500 grams of cocaine; possession with intent to distribute cocaine; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.More »
Tampa Woman Found Guilty of Armed Robbery and Conspiracy
November 18, 2011
Tampa, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury yesterday found Daisy Louise Thomas (32, Tampa) guilty of conspiracy to commit robberies, armed robbery, and using a firearm during a crime of violence. Thomas faces a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 1, 2012.More »
Drug Dealer Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison
November 18, 2011
Tampa, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James Whittemore sentenced Robert Pertee (39, Tampa) to 16 years in federal prison for possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Serial Robber Convicted for String of Walgreens Robberies
November 16, 2011
Orlando, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury yesterday found Terry Jerome Cason (29, Orlando) guilty of one count of conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery, three counts of interference with interstate commerce by robbery, three counts of using and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Cason faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 57 years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 1, 2012. Cason was indicted on March 16, 2011.More »
Convicted Felon Who Shot at Motorists on I–4 Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison
November 15, 2011
Tampa, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore today sentenced Mario Lee Brown (35, Pinellas County) to 18 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Jacksonville Man Sentenced on Gun Charges
November 4, 2011
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Senior U.S. District Judge Henry Lee Adams, Jr. sentenced Rodwick Dowston (29, Jacksonville) to five years in federal prison yesterday for theft of firearms from a licenced firearms dealer and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.More »
Stolen 110–Yr–Old Colt Revolver Recovered in Sting Operation and Returned to Police Chief’s Family
November 3, 2011
Jacksonville, Florida — United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces the return of a 110–year–old Colt revolver that was stolen fourteen years ago. The firearm, a nickleplated pearl–handled Colt single action .45 caliber revolver, was originally presented to the Police Chief of the San Antonio (Texas) Police Department in 1901. The firearm was then stolen in 1997 from the Chief’s great grandson in Jacksonville, Florida. Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) recovered the firearm in 2010 during an undercover sting operation. The two individuals selling the firearm have both been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in the offense.More »
75 Defendants Charged on Firearm, Drug Distribution, or Related Offenses Following 8-Month Undercover Investigation
November 2, 2011
PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida and multiple law enforcement agencies announced that 22 federal indictments were unsealed today in federal court, charging 22 separate defendants with federal firearm violations. Fifty-three additional defendants were charged by state authorities on violations related to state illegal firearm possession, drug distribution, and dealing in stolen property. The federal and state charges follow an eight-month undercover investigation referred to as Operation Anything for a Buck.
More »
Bradenton Man Sentenced to Sixteen Years
October 25, 2011
TAMPA – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that James Lee Davis (33, Bradenton), was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge James Moody for felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Orlando Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of CVS and Armed Carjacking
October 25, 2011
TAMPA – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Joshua Michael Wilkes (29, Orlando) pleaded guilty today to the November 17, 2010, armed robbery of a Tampa CVS Pharmacy and a subsequent armed carjacking. For the use of a firearm to commit the offenses, Wilkes faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 32 years, up to life in federal prison. He faces an additional sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison for the actual robbery and the carjacking.More »
Valentine Bloods Leader Sentenced
October 21, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Susan Bucklew yesterday sentenced David Martin Santiago (30, Pasco County) to 14 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, distribution of cocaine base, being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. The court ordered that this sentence is to be served consecutively to a ten-year sentence Santiago recently received in Pasco County for several felonies. Santiago pled guilty on May 5, 2011.More »
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to More than Fifteen Years in Prison
October 19, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James S. Moody yesterday sentenced Michael Petite (37, St. Petersburg) to 15 years, 8 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm after previously being convicted of a felony. Petite was found to be an armed career criminal. He pled guilty on June 20, 2011.More »
Final Robber Sentenced in Armed Robbery of Charley’s Steakhouse
October 19, 2011
TAMPA – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Osvaldo Yasel Martinez (27, Tampa) was sentenced today by United States District Judge Steven D. Merryday, for 2010 armed robbery of Charley's Steakhouse in Tampa. Martinez, was sentenced to 17 years and four months in federal prison. More »
Convicted Felon Guilty of Possessing Sawed–Off Shotguns
October 5, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that yesterday a federal jury found Dwain Denorris Wallace, III (40, Tampa) guilty of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, and possession of sawed-off shotguns. Wallace faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 4, 2012.More »
Jury Finds Pasco County Man Guilty of Carjacking
October 5, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury yesterday found Jose Guadalupe Gutierrez (20, Dade City) guilty of two counts of carjacking and two counts of use of a firearm to commit a crime of violence. Gutierrez faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 13, 2011 before United States District Court Judge James Moody.More »
Second Defendant Pleads Guilty in Deland Bombing
September 19, 2011
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Cassondra Marie Rassi (25, DeLand) today pleaded guilty to federal charges of possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device) and possession of a firearm (destructive device) by a convicted felon. Rassi faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each count. Rassi’s mother, Lisa Marie Milligan, already entered a guilty plea to the same charges on August 26, 2011. Another co-defendant, John Jenkins (24, Volusia County), is pending trial in October before Chief United States District Judge Anne C. Conway.More »
St. Petersburg Man Sentenced for 16,000 Pounds of Marijuana
September 14, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore has sentenced Leon J. Wood (61, St. Petersburg) to twenty years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana with intent to distribute it and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The court also ordered Wood to forfeit five firearms, 700 rounds of ammunition, five houses, 36 U.S. gold coins, a 2003 Lexus SUV, and more than $1million in cash, which are all traceable to proceeds of the offense. As part of his sentence, the court also entered a money judgment in the amount of $1.5 million, the proceeds of the conspiracy and a $10,000 fine, due immediately.More »
28–Year–Old Felon Sentenced to More than Sixty Years for Selling Crack and Guns
September 14, 2011
Orlando, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven today sentenced Antonio Deon Bizzell (28, Daytona Beach) to 65 years in federal prison for selling crack cocaine and firearms. The court also ordered Bizzell to forfeit the firearms.More »
Convicted Felon is Sentenced to Life for Role in Drug Conspiracy
September 12, 2011
Tampa, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore today sentenced Kenneth Lamar Madden (54, Tampa) to life in federal prison followed by a consecutive 5 years in federal prison for conspiring to possess 5 kilograms or more of cocaine with the intent to distribute and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crimeMore »
Tampa Men Sentenced on Armed Robbery of Charley’s Steakhouse
August 29, 2011
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Rogelio Torres (26, Tampa) and Edgar Colon (22, Tampa) were sentenced today by United States District Judge Steven D. Merryday for the October 18, 2010 armed robbery of Charley’s Steakhouse in Tampa. Colon was sentenced to eleven years and 9 months in federal prison and Torres was sentenced to sixteen years in federal prison.More »
Volusia Drug Dealer Pleads Guilty in Deland Bombing
August 26, 2011
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Lisa Marie Milligan (50, Deltona) today pleaded guilty to federal charges of possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device) and possession of a firearm (destructive device) by a convicted felon. Milligan faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each count.More »
21 Charged Federally in Operation Woodchop
August 23, 2011
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announced today the culmination of Operation Woodchop,
an investigation into two neighborhood-based street gangs in the Orange and Lake County areas. The operation concluded this morning with a total of 21 individuals charged federally with drug violations (see attached list). In addition, 28 individuals were charged with state crimes ranging from drug violations to murder and property crimes.More »
Armed Drug Dealer Found Guilty
August 19, 2011
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury yesterday found Roland Martin (28, Jacksonville) guilty of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Martin faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 28, 2011.More »
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 30 Years
August 12, 2011
Tampa, FL – U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Richard A. Lazzara today sentenced Ernest Blanco, Jr. (55, Pasco County) to 360 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. Blanco was found to be an armed career criminal. The court also ordered Blanco to forfeit his interest in all of the firearms.More »
Convicted Felon Found Guilty of Drug and Weapons Charges in Case involving a Machine Gun and Grenade Launcher
August 10, 2011
Orlando, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury today found Daniel Martinez (29, Orlando) guilty of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and manufacture of marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Martinez faces a mandatory minimum of 30 years up to life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 4, 2011. Martinez was indicted on February 2, 2011.More »
Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty to Gun Charges
August 3, 2011
Jacksonville, FL — United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Rodwick Dowston (29, Jacksonville) today pleaded guilty to theft of firearms from a licenced dealer and possession of firearms by a convicted felon. Dowston faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.More »
Connvicted Felon Found Guilty of Possessing a Firearm
July 27, 2011
Tampa, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury yesterday found Gregory Miller (45, Tampa) guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Miller faces a maximum penalty of ten years in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 25, 2011.More »
Felon on Federal Supervised Release for Bank Robbery is Sentenced to 20 Years For Role in Drug Conspiracy
July 19, 2011
Tampa, FL – U.S. Attorney Robert E. OŠNeill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore yesterday sentenced Dennis James Johnson (47, Tampa) to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess 5 kilograms or more of cocaine with the intent to distribute and carrying, or possessing a firearm during and in relation to or in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.More »
Polk County Man Sentenced to 42 Years
June 27, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Akimmie D. Wesley (29, Polk County) was sentenced today by United States District Judge James S. Moody, Jr. to 42 years in federal prison for robbery, carjacking, bank robbery, carrying a firearm during a crime of violence and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.More »
Armed Robber Sentenced to Life
June 14, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore yesterday sentenced Charles Bernard Tolson (19, Bradenton) to life in federal prison for three convenience store/gas station robberies in Tampa and Manatee County during October 2009. The Court ordered that Tolson serve 3 concurrent 125 month sentences for each robbery, and consecutive to that, to serve 3 concurrent life sentences for brandishing a firearm during each robbery. Tolson was also ordered to make restitution to each of his victims totaling $2,414.60.More »
Tampa Man Found Guilty of Drug Conspiracy
June 8, 2011
Tampa, FL – U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury today found Kenneth Lamar Madden (53, Tampa) guilty of conspiracy to possess 5 kilograms or more of cocaine with the intent to distribute; carrying, or possessing a firearm during and in relation to or in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possession of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base. Madden faces a statutory mandatory sentence of life plus five years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for September 12, 2011.More »
Fifteen Charged in Methamphetamine Ring
May 24, 2011
PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – A federal criminal complaint has been filed charging fifteen defendants with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine in Jackson County, Florida, announced Pamela C. Marsh, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.More »
Armed Robber Gets 50 Years
May 24, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore yesterday sentenced Lashay Theodora Cooper (23, Bradenton) to 50 years in federal prison for the robbery of a Chevron gas station convenience store and the pistol–whipping of a clerk at an Uppy’s BP gas station. The court also ordered that Cooper’s sentence run consecutive to his 70–month state prison sentence for two unrelated armed robberies in Florida. Cooper was ordered to make restitution to his victims in the amount of $2,414.60.More »
Sarasota Drug Trafficker Sentenced
May 17, 2011
Tampa, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James S. Moody, Jr. today sentenced William Thomas White (37, Sarasota) to 295 months in federal prison for conspiring with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine.More »
Convicted Felon Sentenced to 15 Years for Gun Possession
May 11, 2011
Orlando, Florida – U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge G. Kendall Sharp today sentenced Ermando Lewis (32, Daytona Beach) to 15 years in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Lewis pled guilty on February 24, 2011.More »
Neo-Nazi Prison Gang Member Sentenced for Selling Pipe Bombs
May 3, 2011
Tampa, Florida – U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore sentenced Marc A. Balentine (42, St. Petersburg) to seven years and three months in federal prison for selling unregistered destructive devices to undercover agents.More »
Convicted Felon Facing Life in Prison for Crack and Firearms Charges
May 3, 2011
Orlando, Florida – U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that a federal jury on Monday found Antonio Deon Bizzell (28, Daytona Beach), guilty of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of crack cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of crack cocaine, carrying a firearm while drug trafficking and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Bizzell faces a mandatory minimum of 65 years and up to a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not been scheduled yet.More »
Haines City Man Sentenced for Possession of Drugs and Ammunition
April 27, 2011
Tampa, Florida— U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge James D. Whittemore yesterday sentenced Sandchase Cody (37, Haines City) to 24 years and 6 months in federal prison for distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and being a felon in possession of ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1).More »
Orlando Man Who Shot at Sheriff’s Helicopter Sentenced to Prison
April 26, 2011
Orlando, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Gregory A. Presnell today sentenced Jason Dennis McGuire (27, of Orlando) to 30 months in federal prison for the attempted destruction of an aircraft and for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. McGuire was sentenced to a consecutive sentence of 120 months for using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence for a total sentence of twelve and one–half years.More »
ATF Offers $5,000 Reward for Information Regarding a Theft of Firearms
April 22, 2011
TALLAHASSEE, FLA. — Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Virginia O’Brien, Tampa Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), today announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the burglary of Angel’s Gun Shop and Business Center located at 30871 Blue Star Highway, Midway, Fla.More »
Jacksonville Man Arrested in Miami on Gun Charges
April 15, 2011
Jacksonville, FL— United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Rodwick Dowston (age 29, Jacksonville) with theft of firearms from a licensed dealer, possession of firearms by a convicted felon and possession of stolen firearms. If convicted on all counts, Dowston faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison.More »
South Florida Man Convicted for Armed Drug Trafficking
April 6, 2011
TALLAHASSEE — Lawrence Berry, Jr., 44, of Opa–locka, was convicted late yesterday of conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine, possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking offenses, and possessing a firearm after a felony conviction, announced Pamela C. Marsh, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.More »
Two Fort Myers Men Indicted for Robbery of an Undercover Lee County Detective
March 31, 2011
Fort Myers, Florida — United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Eddy Luis Jose Estrella (age 25, Fort Myers) and Miguel Angel Martinez (age 27, Fort Myers) with multiple felonies relating to a robbery of an undercover Lee County Sheriff’s Office detective. Estrella is charged with distribution of oxycodone within 1000 feet of a playground, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to the distribution of oxycodone, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, conspiracy to affect commerce by robbery, robbery affecting commerce, conspiracy to use and carry a firearm during and in relation to a robbery, and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a robbery. If convicted on all counts, Estrella faces a mandatory minimum period of 32 years up to a maximum of Life in federal prison. Martinez is charged with conspiracy to affect commerce by robbery, robbery affecting commerce, conspiracy to use and carry a firearm during and in relation to a robbery, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a robbery, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.More »
Arcadian Man Indicted on Federal Gun Charge
March 17, 2011
Fort Myers, Florida — United States Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Michael Andre Brown (31, Arcadia) with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. If convicted on all counts, as an Armed Career Criminal, Michael Brown faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years to a maximum of life in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Michael Brown that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition which are the subject of the charged criminal conduct.More »
Tampa Man Sentenced to 62 Years Imprisonment for Armed Robbery and Carjacking
January 18, 2011
Tampa, Florida — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Virginia Covington today sentenced Frederick Wardell Mitchell (age 29, of Tampa) to sixtytwo years in federal prison for the armed robbery of a Waffle House Restaurant, and the subsequent carjacking of a patron in the restaurant. Mitchell was found guilty by a jury on October 1, 2010.More »
Daytona Beach Man Sentenced to More Than 9 Years for Selling Guns and Drugs
January 10, 2011
Orlando, FL — U.S. Attorney Robert E. O’Neill announces that Chief U.S. District Judge Anne C. Conway today sentenced Jarod A. Vreen (age 23, of Daytona Beach, Florida) to 9 years and 2 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. Vreen pled guilty on October 5, 2010. More »
Orlando Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Federal Prison
November 3, 2010
U.S. Attorney Robert E. O'Neill announces that U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven today sentenced Aralius Tremaine Gandy (age 28,of Orlando) to fifteen years and eight months in federal prison for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person (convicted felon). The court also ordered Gandy to forfeit the firearms and ammunition involved in the crime. Gandy previously had entered a guilty plea on March 1, 2010. More »
Fleeing Felon Sentenced to 14 Years
October 1, 2010
United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan today sentenced Dwayne Thompson (age 26, of Jacksonville) to10 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony and an additional 50 months for failure to appear. More »
Tampa Man Convicted of Armed Robbery and Carjacking
October 1, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that a federal jury today found Frederick Wardell Mitchell (age 29, of Tampa) guilty of armed robbery and armed carjacking. Mitchell faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 35 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2011. More »
International Firearms Traffickers Sought in ATF’s “Operation Castaway”
September 22, 2010
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Tampa Field Division is seeking the public’s assistance in locating two fugitives who are wanted for federal firearms trafficking violations. Both subjects are considered armed and dangerous and may have fled the country. More »
United States Attorney’s Office, ATF, and ICE Announce Results of Major International Firearms Trafficking Investigation
September 21, 2010
United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton, Virginia O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of central and northern Florida Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) operations, and Susan McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations, Tampa Field Office announce the initial results of Operation Castaway, an intensive and wideranging Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF
) firearms trafficking investigation conducted by ATF, ICE, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, and the Miami-Dade Police Department. ATF describes Operation Castaway as the most significant firearms trafficking investigation in Central Florida history. More »
Sarasota Man Sentenced to 262 Months for Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm
August 26, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington on Tuesday sentenced Terrance Riley (age 39, of Sarasota) to 21 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony and possessing crack cocaine. A jury had found Riley guilty on February 2, 2010. More »
St. Augustine Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Gun and Drug Possession
August 26, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Henry Lee Adams, Jr. today sentenced Darryl Wayne Gardner (age 26, of St. Augustine) to 15 years in federal prison for possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute it and for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. More »
Brothers Sentenced for Armed Robbery in Titusville
August 23, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge John Antoon, II on August 20, 2010, sentenced Ramiret Davis (age 25, of Titusville) to 15 years in federal prison for conspiracy and armed robbery. Davis was found guilty by a jury on May 6, 2010. Davis’s brother, Loranzo Thomas (age 23, of Albany, Georgia) pleaded guilty on May 4, 2010, to charges of conspiracy, and armed robbery. Thomas was sentenced to 13 years and 7 months in federal prison. More »
Jacksonville Armed Felon Sentenced to 10 Years
June 2, 2010
United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that David Brown (age 28, of Jacksonville) was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan to 10 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. More »
Live Oak Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison in Connection With Shooting
May 26, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Henry Lee Adams, Jr. today sentenced Maurice Boatman (age 34, of Live Oak) to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. Boatman was designated an Armed Career Criminal for multiple prior felony convictions, including attempted murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, shooting a deadly missile, and possession with Intent to sell cocaine. Boatman had pleaded guilty on January 27, 2010. More »
Jacksonville Couple Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Crack Cocaine
May 26, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Henry Lee Adams, Jr. yesterday sentenced Larry Malevece McCrimager (age 25) and Shonta Nicole Kagler (age 25), both of Jacksonville, to federal prison for a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine. McCrimager was designated a Career Offender for prior felony convictions and sentenced to fifteen years for his role in the conspiracy and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. More »
Jacksonville Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years
April 29, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces today that Jeremiah White (age 31, of Jacksonville) was sentenced on April 27, 2010, by United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan to 10 years in federal prison for possessing more than 5 grams of cocaine base with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm during the commission of a drug trafficking crime. More »
ATF’s “Operation Sand Road” Shuts Down Major Organized Firearms and Drug Sales Operation
April 22, 2010
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), in a multi-agency investigation, arrested four suspects in Leon County, Fla. for illegal sales of firearms and narcotics. Arrest warrants for four additional suspects have been obtained. More »
Pasco County Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 25 Years in Murder-for-Hire Scheme
April 19, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday today sentenced Joseph Lee Musson (age 32, of Hudson) to 25 years in federal prison for using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-forhire, using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm after a felony conviction. More »
Lehigh Acres Man Convicted on Drug and Weapons Charges
April 9, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that a federal jury yesterday found Joseph James Lese (age 58, Lehigh Acres, Florida) guilty of federal firearms and narcotics violations. Lese was convicted of possessing and transferring an unregistered sawed-off shotgun; conspiring to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine; and possessing firearms, including semiautomatic assault weapons, in furtherance of the drug trafficking conspiracy. More »
Armed Robber of Orlando Metro PCS Stores Sentenced to More Than 13 Years in Federal Prison
February 9, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven today sentenced Calvin N. Pope, Jr. (age 19, of Winter Park) to 162 months in federal prison on two counts of interference with commerce by robbery and an additional count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. More »
Pasco Man Pleads Guilty to Murder-for-Hire Scheme, Firearms Offenses
January 28, 2010
United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that Joseph Lee Musson (age 33, of Hudson) pleaded guilty today to using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a felony. Musson faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. More »
Jacksonville Felon Sentenced to More Than 16 Years for Possessing Handgun
January 28, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan yesterday sentenced Keith Laron Brooks (age 37, of Jacksonville) as an armed career criminal to 16 years and eight months in federal prison for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The court also ordered Brooks to forfeit a Hi-Power brand 9 mm pistol and ammunition. A jury had found Brooks guilty on September 18, 2009 after a five-day trial. More »
Cocaine and Firearm Land Deltona Man 22 Years in Federal Prison
January 14, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven yesterday sentenced Corey Lee Taylor (age 40, of Deltona) to 22 years in federal prison for distributing cocaine, possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute it, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. More »
Kissimmee Crack Dealer Sentenced to Fifteen Years in Federal Prison for Firearm and Drug Convictions
January 12, 2010
U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announces that Chief U.S. District Judge Anne C. Conway today sentenced Adrian Lamar Williams (33, of Kissimmee) to fifteen years in federal prison for possession of crack cocaine with the intent to distribute and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Williams had been found guilty of the charges on January 13, 2009, after a jury trial in federal court. More »
St. Petersburg Man Who Led Tampa Police on High-Speed Chase Indicted on Federal Drug and Gun Charges
January 12, 2010
United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Virginia O’Brien announce the return by a federal grand jury an indictment charging Aaron Cainion (age 31, of St. Petersburg) with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. More »