Jonathan Rogers Jr., Stolen Firearm, Jacksonville FL, 2022

JACKSONVILLE, FL – Jonathan Donte Rogers, Jr., 21, of Jacksonville, is facing serious federal charges after allegedly stealing a firearm from a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Officer and flaunting it online. Rogers is accused of possessing the stolen short-barreled rifle and failing to register it with the proper authorities, a clear violation of federal law.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation after Rogers posted a video on social media showcasing the weapon, quickly identifying it as belonging to one of their own officers. The incident, which occurred on September 6, 2022, raises questions about how Rogers obtained the rifle and his intent in possessing it.

According to court documents, the rifle was confirmed as stolen. Federal prosecutors, led by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro, have formally indicted Rogers on two counts: possession of a stolen firearm and possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle. If convicted on either count, Rogers faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, headed by Roger B. Handberg, intends to seek forfeiture of the firearm and any associated ammunition as evidence related to the crime. Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran will handle the forfeiture proceedings. This move signals the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating the case.

This case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local law enforcement. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN strategy in May 2021, focusing on community trust, violence prevention, strategic enforcement, and measurable results.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt. Rogers is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, the charges paint a troubling picture of alleged criminal activity and a blatant disregard for the law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it progresses through the federal court system.

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