FORT MYERS, FL – Cambrel Jamal Smart, 29, of Fort Lauderdale, is headed to federal prison for five years after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell handed down the sentence today, also ordering Smart to forfeit the weapon and the 17 rounds of ammunition he illegally possessed. The case underscores the ATF’s ongoing crackdown on repeat offenders flouting federal gun laws.
The bust went down January 5, 2022, when a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper clocked Smart speeding on I-75 in Collier County. The Trooper’s suspicions were quickly raised by the strong odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. A search revealed a clear plastic bag containing what appeared to be marijuana in the center console. But the real trouble wasn’t the weed.
A more thorough search of the vehicle uncovered a loaded firearm wedged between the front and back passenger-side seats. The gun, packed with 17 rounds, was quickly traced back to Smart through DNA testing. Crucially, Smart’s prior convictions already barred him from legally owning or possessing any firearms or ammunition under federal law. This wasn’t a first offense; he’s a multi-convicted felon.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Florida Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney Trent Reichling led the prosecution, building a solid case based on the evidence seized during the traffic stop and the subsequent DNA analysis. The swift and decisive action sends a clear message that illegally possessing firearms will be met with serious consequences.
Federal officials are framing this case as part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence across the country. The PSN strategy focuses on building trust with communities, supporting local violence prevention programs, and prioritizing strategic enforcement efforts. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened version of PSN in May 2021, doubling down on these principles.
Smart’s five-year sentence is a testament to the collaborative work of federal and state law enforcement. While the program touts community safety, critics argue it’s another example of the federal government overstepping and disproportionately impacting marginalized communities. Nevertheless, Smart will have plenty of time to consider his choices behind bars. The case was handled by the Tampa Field Division of the ATF.
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