Fort Myers, Florida – In a shocking turn of events, a notorious career criminal has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for unlawfully possessing a loaded firearm. Carl Samuel Thompson, Jr., 60, of Fort Myers, was found guilty of possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
Thompson’s extensive criminal history, which includes at least three convictions for violent felonies, qualified him for enhanced sentencing under the Armed Career Criminal Act. He entered a guilty plea on October 30, 2024, and was subsequently sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber.
According to court records, on April 7, 2024, a vehicle being driven by Thompson was pulled over in North Fort Myers by deputies from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office for a traffic infraction. During the traffic stop, deputies discovered that Thompson’s front seat passenger was concealing a loaded firearm, which was secured by the deputies during the traffic stop.
A subsequent investigation revealed that Thompson, who had an active warrant for his arrest, had provided the firearm to his passenger to conceal after realizing he was being pulled over. As a career criminal with more than 10 prior felony convictions, Thompson is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in our communities. The program brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Simon R. Eth.
Defendant: Carl Samuel Thompson, Jr.
Criminal Charges: Possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon
City and State: Fort Myers, Florida
Exact Date: April 7, 2024 (crime date)
Sentence or Outcome: 15 years in federal prison
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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