Johnny Lee Smith, Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, Florida 2020

Ocala, Florida – In a shocking turn of events, Johnny Lee Smith, a 43-year-old man from Pensacola, has pleaded guilty to one count of a superseding indictment charging him with possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.

According to the indictment, which was handed down on September 30, 2020, Smith faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years, and up to life, in federal prison. The case involves a loaded .22 caliber revolver found on the front passenger seat of Smith’s car during a traffic stop on August 29, 2020. Deputies from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office arrested Smith and recovered an additional .22 caliber bullet from his pocket.

Smith has a long history of 15 prior state felony convictions, including numerous convictions for the sale of cocaine. As a result, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys William S. Hamilton and Charles Helm. It is part of the “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program, a nationwide crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities.

The “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program involves a comprehensive approach to public safety, including investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Middle District of Florida, Acting U.S. Attorney Karin Hoppmann coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.

Smith’s guilty plea is a significant blow to the community, and a reminder of the dangers of gun violence. The case highlights the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to keep communities safe.

The sentencing hearing for Johnny Lee Smith is yet to be determined.

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