Ernest L. Thomas II, a 35-year-old Pensacola resident, has been hit with serious federal charges for illegal firearm possession by a convicted felon. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida announced that Thomas faces up to fifteen years’ imprisonment if convicted.
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Thomas’s arraignment took place in federal court on September 23, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho. His jury trial is set for November 10, 2025, with District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II presiding.
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This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
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Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson is handling the prosecution. It’s important to note that an indictment is not evidence of guilt, and Thomas is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
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The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida serves as one of 94 principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. For more information on this case or public court documents, visit their website at usao.fln.index.html.
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Operation Take Back America, which includes efforts from OCDETFs and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN), demonstrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to national security and community safety.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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