OCALA, FL – Brian David Casey, 35, of Clermont, Florida, is headed to federal prison for 21 months after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The sentence, handed down by Senior U.S. District Judge John Antoon II, underscores the federal government’s commitment to keeping guns out of the hands of those legally prohibited from owning them. Casey’s history, riddled with violent offenses, played a key role in the judge’s decision.
Court records reveal a pattern of criminal behavior. Casey was previously convicted of burglary in 2008 and two counts of battery on a law enforcement officer in 2011. These convictions automatically disqualify him from legally possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Yet, on March 20, 2023, Casey allegedly brandished a loaded shotgun at his neighbor, reportedly threatening to kill her. The situation escalated when his wife intervened, physically pushing the barrel of the weapon away, at which point Casey discharged the shotgun into the ground.
Casey later admitted the shot was intended as a “warning,” but authorities weren’t buying it. Federal agents, responding to the incident, arrested Casey and discovered he was also in possession of a loaded revolver. The presence of a second firearm while already facing charges for the shotgun incident painted a clear picture of disregard for the law and a potential danger to the community. This wasn’t simply a mistake; it was a deliberate act by a repeat offender.
The investigation, a collaborative effort between the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), built a solid case against Casey. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Nowalk skillfully prosecuted the case, presenting the evidence that ultimately led to the guilty plea and subsequent sentencing. The quick response and cooperation between local and federal agencies were critical in removing a potentially dangerous individual from the streets.
This case is being touted as a success under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence through coordinated law enforcement efforts. The DOJ launched a strengthened version of PSN in May 2021, emphasizing community trust, violence prevention, strategic enforcement, and measurable results. While the program’s effectiveness is often debated, officials point to cases like Casey’s as evidence of its potential.
Casey’s 21-month sentence sends a message: possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon will not be tolerated. The Grimy Times will continue to monitor the impact of PSN and other federal initiatives aimed at curbing gun violence, holding accountable those who endanger our communities. The Tampa Field Division of the ATF oversaw aspects of the investigation, further highlighting the agency’s ongoing commitment to firearm-related crime enforcement.
Related Federal Cases
- Etavious J. Milton, Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Tal… · Florida
- Aaron Diggs, Felon Firearm Possession, FL, 2023 · Florida
- Lamar Ivory Convicted of Felon Firearm Possession, Jacksonville FL,… · Virginia
- Pedro Garcia, Felon in Possession of Firearm, Florida 2017 · Florida
- Ernest L. Chambliss, Felon Firearm Possession, FL 2023 · Virginia
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
WeaponsWeaponsWeaponsWeapons