OCALA, FL – Justin Heath Griffin, 35, of Ocklawaha, Florida, is facing up to a decade in federal prison after admitting to illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition. The plea comes after Griffin was initially arrested for a simple traffic violation – driving without a valid license – which quickly spiraled into a discovery of a loaded weapon, drugs, and a lengthy criminal history.
According to court documents, the Ocala Police Department made the initial stop on March 3, 2022. The subsequent search revealed not just the firearm and ammunition, but also drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine. But the real kicker? Griffin wasn’t just some first-time offender. He’s a repeat felon, with eight prior state convictions already on his record.
Those convictions include a 2006 conviction for possession of a firearm by a violent offender and a 2007 conviction for armed robbery. Federal law clearly prohibits individuals with felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition. This wasn’t a misunderstanding; it was a brazen disregard for the law by a man with a documented history of violence.
The case was a joint effort between the Ocala Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk is prosecuting the case, and will be seeking a significant sentence given Griffin’s prior record. The indictment against Griffin was originally filed on July 19, 2022.
Federal officials are framing the prosecution as part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broad initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence. The program focuses on building trust with communities, supporting local organizations, and strategic enforcement. But for residents of Ocala, this case is a stark reminder that the real work lies in keeping dangerous individuals off the streets.
Griffin’s sentencing is scheduled for March 9, 2023, before Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell. If convicted, Griffin could spend up to 10 years behind bars. The Grimy Times will be present for the sentencing and will provide updates as they become available. The Tampa Field Division of the ATF oversaw the investigation.
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