Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Machinegun and Silencer Cache

Fort McCoy Man Caught with Unregistered NFA Weapons

Ocala, FL – In a shocking display of disregard for federal law, Robert Edward Smith (59, Fort McCoy) has pleaded guilty to possession of unregistered National Firearms Act (NFA) weapons—a machinegun and silencers. This egregious offense has left law enforcement officials and community leaders stunned.

According to court documents, special agents searched Smith’s Marion County residence on February 15, 2024, pursuant to a federal search warrant. Inside Smith’s bedroom, agents located a Sten machinegun and two silencers. None of the items were registered to Smith in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as required under federal law.

This case is a stark reminder of the dangers of unregulated firearms and the importance of federal law enforcement agencies working tirelessly to keep our communities safe. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement led the investigation, with Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Crockett handling the prosecution.

Smith’s guilty plea carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve. Launched on May 26, 2021, the department’s violent crime reduction strategy strengthens PSN by fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations, and setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities.

As the numbers continue to rise, it’s clear that federal law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.