Johnny Dawson, Possessing a Firearm as a Convicted Felon, Florida 2016

Tampa, Florida – In a shocking display of disregard for the law, Johnny Dawson, a 38-year-old Sarasota resident, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The Court also ordered him to forfeit the firearm and ammunition seized during his arrest.

Dawson pleaded guilty on April 26, 2017. His decision to plead guilty marked a significant blow to the community, who were left wondering how such a blatant disregard for the law went unchecked for so long.

According to court documents, on August 7, 2016, law enforcement officers responded to a call reporting an individual who had a firearm wrapped inside of a t-shirt. The responding officer observed Dawson walking away, holding a t-shirt. As the officer approached, Dawson moved the shirt behind his back, and the officer could see the outline of a firearm within the shirt. Dawson then put the shirt down and fled. The officer apprehended Dawson, seized the shirt, and recovered a loaded gun wrapped inside with the hammer cocked back.

Dawson later admitted to possessing the loaded firearm. At the time of the offense, Dawson had multiple prior felony convictions and therefore is prohibited from carrying a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

This case was jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Sarasota Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaitlin R. O’Donnell.

Dawson’s sentence is a testament to the dedication of law enforcement officials in the Middle District of Florida. The sentence is also a warning to those who would continue to disregard the law and engage in violent behavior.

The case was prosecuted as part of the “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program – a nationwide, gun-violence reduction strategy. Acting United States Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow, along with Daryl McCrary, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, are coordinating the Project Safe Neighborhoods effort in the Middle District of Florida in cooperation with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.

Defendant: Johnny Dawson

Criminal Charges: Possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon

City and State: Sarasota, Florida

Crime Date: August 7, 2016

Sentence: 15 years in federal prison

Defendant’s Name: Johnny Dawson

Exact Date: April 26, 2017 (plea)

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/sarasota-armed-career-criminal-sentenced-15-years-federal-prison