FORT MYERS, FL – Re’Shod Peter Jontavious Larry, 28, of Fort Myers, is headed to federal prison for seven years and eight months after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell handed down the sentence, and also ordered Larry to forfeit the Smith & Wesson handgun and loaded magazine seized during the arrest.
The case began with a routine traffic stop on November 16, 2021, when Fort Myers Police Department (FMPD) officers pulled over the vehicle Larry was riding in. A certified narcotics-detection dog quickly alerted officers to the presence of drugs. A search of the vehicle revealed a baggie containing cocaine residue on the seat where Larry had been sitting. But the real trouble came with what was hidden underneath that seat – a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun.
Investigators didn’t stop there. A loaded, high-capacity magazine was found in the glove box directly in front of Larry. Forensic analysis revealed a latent palmprint lifted from that magazine matched Larry’s, cementing his connection to the weapon. This wasn’t a simple possession charge; Larry was already a convicted felon, recently released from a stint in prison for selling fentanyl. Federal law explicitly prohibits individuals with felony convictions from owning firearms or ammunition.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) joined the FMPD in the investigation, building a solid case against Larry. Assistant United States Attorney Simon R. Eth skillfully prosecuted the case, securing the significant sentence. The swift and coordinated response between local and federal agencies highlights the ongoing efforts to keep illegal weapons off the streets.
Federal officials emphasize this case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive program designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement and local communities. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN strategy in May 2021, focusing on building trust, supporting community organizations, prioritizing enforcement, and measuring results.
Larry’s seven-year, eight-month sentence serves as a stark reminder that possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon carries serious consequences. The case underscores the commitment of both the ATF and FMPD to aggressively pursue individuals who illegally possess weapons, especially those with prior criminal histories. The forfeited firearm will be destroyed, removing it from potential circulation.
Related Federal Cases
- Derrick Shane McCullough, Gun Possession by Felon, WV 2016 · Virginia
- Jermonte Thornton, Felon Gun Possession, Florida 2024 · Virginia
- Fort Myers Felon Sentenced to 21 Months for Possessing Loaded Firearm · Florida
- Ocala Felon Lewis Tinson Jr. Arrested for Gun Possession · Alabama
- Felon Bing Charged with Gun Possession · Virginia
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