Pensacola Arson Suspect Simonds Indicted Federally

GRIMY NEWS: Pensacola native Gregory E. Simonds Jr., 42, has been charged in federal court with arson following a fiery blaze at a Fort Walton Beach building.

The charges stem from an explosion that caused significant damage to the structure located at 792 Beal Parkway and resulted in personal injury. United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced the serious allegations against Simonds.

Simonds is set to appear before United States Magistrate Judge Hope Thai Cannon on August 27, 2025, for his initial appearance. If convicted, he faces a minimum of seven years and up to 40 years in federal prison.

The investigation leading to the charges was a collaborative effort between the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with additional support from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes is handling the prosecution.

An indictment is merely an accusation of wrongdoing by a grand jury and does not prove guilt. Simonds maintains his innocence until proven otherwise in court.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a Justice Department initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, eliminating cartels, and protecting communities from violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is at the forefront of these efforts.