Convicted felon from Gainesville sentenced to 144 months in prison for firearm offense
Gainesville, Florida – A 44-year-old Gainesville resident, Ethan Anderson, has been sentenced to 144 months in federal prison. This sentence follows his guilty plea to the charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentencing was announced by Jason R. Coody, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
On February 28, 2023, officers from the Gainesville Police Department responded to reports of an armed disturbance. Upon arrival, they discovered that Anderson had discharged a firearm during a heated argument. He was located inside a nearby residence, where a search uncovered a firearm containing his DNA. Anderson admitted to possessing and discharging the weapon.
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U.S. Attorney Coody commended the swift action of law enforcement, stating, “Our law enforcement partners play a vital role in fighting crime and protecting the public. Due to their swift action, a habitual felon who discharged a firearm during a heated argument is back where he belongs, behind bars. His incarceration will not only make the community safer but also illustrate the real and severe consequences for federal firearm offenses.”
Kristin Rehler, FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge, emphasized the importance of cooperation between agencies in addressing violent crime. “The FBI is committed to safeguarding our communities from violent crime,” she said. “This sentencing should serve as a message that we will continue to join forces with our law enforcement partners and use all tools available to tackle the issue of gun violence in our neighborhoods and ensure those who commit violent acts are punished to the full extent of the law.”
Following his 144-month prison term, Anderson will be subject to three years of supervised release. This case was thoroughly investigated by the Gainesville Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Harley W. Ferguson handled the prosecution. The effective collaboration between local and federal law enforcement agencies played a crucial role in ensuring that Anderson faced justice.
