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Serial Felon Pleads Guilty to Gun Charge
Curtis Lee Smith-Carter, a 28-year-old from Gainesville, Florida, has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
According to court documents, on November 8, 2025, Smith-Carter attempted to flee from police as they approached him behind a Gainesville convenience store near an open fire. At that time, the defendant was in possession of a loaded .32 caliber pistol, which he threw over a fence.
Smith-Carter has been convicted of nine prior felony offenses, including possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Gainesville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.
Smith-Carter faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for July 21, 2026, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before United States Chief District Judge Allen C. Winsor.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from violent criminals.
As part of the plea agreement, Smith-Carter pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a federal crime that carries a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is committed to protecting the citizens of this district from violent crime. We will continue to aggressively prosecute and seek maximum punishments for repeat offenders, like Smith-Carter.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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