JACKSONVILLE, FL – Frederick Lamont Sams, 41, of Jacksonville, is headed back to federal prison for seven years after a high-speed chase ended with the recovery of a loaded handgun. U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan handed down the sentence Thursday, marking another chapter in Sams’ long history with the law.
The bust went down February 16, 2022, when a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Officer spotted Sams behind the wheel of a stolen vehicle. What followed was a pursuit that culminated with Sams ditching the car and attempting to flee on foot. As he ran, he tossed a Glock .45 caliber pistol, loaded with a staggering 25 rounds of ammunition. Officers quickly apprehended Sams and recovered the weapon.
This wasn’t Sams’ first rodeo. Court records reveal he’s a repeat offender, recently released from prison after serving time for – ironically – burglary and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He’d only been back on the streets for less than six months when he allegedly committed this latest crime. Federal law clearly prohibits Sams, as a convicted felon, from owning or possessing any firearms or ammunition.
The case was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro prosecuted the case, with forfeiture proceedings to be handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mai Tran. The feds aren’t just locking him up; they’re seizing any assets linked to the crime.
Federal officials are framing this case as part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods,” a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement and communities. The program emphasizes building trust, supporting community organizations, and strategically focusing enforcement efforts.
Sams’ seven-year sentence sends a clear message: Jacksonville’s streets won’t be a playground for repeat offenders flouting gun laws. The ATF’s Tampa Field Division spearheaded the investigation, highlighting the agency’s commitment to keeping illegal weapons off the streets. This case underscores the ongoing battle against gun violence and the consequences for those who choose to break the law.
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