Jesus Rivas, Unlawful Ammunition Possession, Florida 2023

TAMPA, FL – Jesus Rivas, 29, of Tampa, is headed back to federal prison for more than eight years after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of ammunition as a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Charlene E. Honeywell handed down the eight-year and four-month sentence, a harsh reminder that repeat offenders face serious consequences for breaking the law, particularly when it comes to firearms.

The case unfolded late on November 22, 2021, when Tampa Police Department (TPD) officers spotted a silver Infiniti illegally passing another vehicle on the shoulder of the road. A routine traffic stop quickly turned into a chase when the driver – later identified as Rivas – bolted. Officers broadcast a description of the vehicle, and a second officer soon located the Infiniti parked with two men walking away.

A search of the abandoned vehicle revealed a “ghost gun” – an unregistered, privately assembled firearm – loaded with 22 rounds of Blazer ammunition stashed under the driver’s seat. Rivas readily admitted to driving the Infiniti and fleeing from police during questioning. Forensic testing of DNA collected from Rivas and the firearm confirmed a match, solidifying the evidence against him.

As a ten-time convicted felon, Rivas was legally prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition. This isn’t a first-time offense; his extensive criminal history clearly demonstrates a disregard for the law. The sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions and the potential danger he posed to the community.

The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Tampa Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Charlie D. Connally prosecuted the case, bringing it to a swift and decisive conclusion. The government has made it clear they will pursue individuals who illegally possess firearms.

This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative focused on reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement and community organizations. The program aims to foster trust, support preventative measures, and strategically target enforcement efforts to make neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles.

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