SARASOTA, FL – Clinton Justesen, 49, of Sebring, is headed to federal prison for more than six years after a routine traffic stop unearthed a cache of drugs, firearms, and a criminal history stretching back decades. U.S. District Judge James S. Moody, Jr. handed down the sentence today, finding Justesen guilty of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The bust went down September 9, 2022, when Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputies pulled over a truck driven by Justesen near the intersection of Williamsburg Street and North Lockwood Ridge Road. Deputies quickly discovered the vehicle was hauling more than just a motorcycle – it was also carrying a stolen bike reported missing just weeks prior, on August 23, 2022. A thorough search of the truck and trailer revealed a disturbing arsenal.
Authorities recovered a HS Produkt XD9 9mm pistol, a Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield 9mm pistol, and an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223/5.56mm caliber rifle, complete with a vertical foregrip. Alongside the weapons were hundreds of rounds of ammunition, 12.6 grams of methamphetamine, a vacuum sealer, a digital scale, a variety of unidentified pills, and a staggering $12,000 in cash. The evidence painted a clear picture: Justesen wasn’t just collecting firearms; he was actively dealing drugs.
Justesen’s rap sheet is extensive, dating back to January 31, 1997, with prior convictions for vehicular homicide, leaving the scene of a crash with death, armed robbery, and – ironically – being a felon in possession of a firearm. As a repeat offender, he was already legally barred from owning weapons. He later confessed to ATF agents that he was indeed selling narcotics and needed the firearms for “protection” while conducting his illegal business. A convenient excuse for a dangerous combination.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorney David W.A. Chee leading the prosecution. The case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a federal program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement and communities.
Justesen’s sentence – six years and two months – sends a message, though whether it’s enough to deter others remains to be seen. For now, one less dealer and a collection of illegal weapons are off the streets of Sarasota. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing efforts to combat crime in Florida.
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Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Weapons|Violent Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Press Release
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