GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE: Lagarius Joseph Johnson, 21, of Gainesville, Florida, was meted out a 35-year and 3-month sentence by federal court for drug trafficking, firearm possession, and machinegun offenses. United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced the sentence, emphasizing Operation Take Back America’s commitment to community safety.
Johnson’s prosecution stems from surveillance operations at Majestic Oaks apartments in Gainesville, where officers discovered a stash of firearms, including a machinegun, which Johnson was prohibited from possessing due to his criminal history. During a confrontation, Johnson fled with police canine assistance, discarding a pistol and backpack containing drugs.
Upon examination, the pistol was found to contain a machinegun conversion device, transforming it into an automatic weapon. Law enforcement then accessed Johnson’s cellphone and social media accounts, revealing numerous pictures of him with guns, cash, and advertising marijuana for sale.
Gainesville Police Department’s Chief Nelson Moya praised the efforts of law enforcement partners, stating that drug trafficking increases violence in communities. Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Deanne L. Reuter echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the collaboration between agencies to remove dangerous criminals from the streets.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Commissioner Mark Glass and ATF Tampa Field Division’s Special Agent Kirk Howard highlighted the comprehensive approach to dismantling criminal networks that threaten public safety. Johnson’s sentence includes supervised release following his prison term.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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