Sherron Gary, Gun Possession by Felon, Florida 2023

TAMPA, FL – Sherron Gary, 40, of Tampa, is facing a potentially life-altering sentence after being indicted on federal charges for possessing a firearm and ammunition despite a lengthy and violent criminal record. The indictment, returned earlier this week, details how Gary illegally held a Walther Creed 9mm semiautomatic pistol and multiple rounds of ammunition earlier this year.

According to court documents, on April 9, 2023, authorities discovered Gary in possession of the 9mm handgun, along with 12 rounds of Blazer 9mm ammunition, a single Starline 9mm round, and another Sig 9mm round. This isn’t a first offense. Gary’s rap sheet reveals multiple prior felony convictions, painting a picture of a repeat offender with a history of serious violence and drug trafficking.

Those convictions include aggravated battery, armed burglary of a dwelling, and multiple counts related to cocaine – trafficking, delivery, and even delivery within 1,000 feet of a church. Federal law clearly prohibits anyone with such a criminal history from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida is making an example of Gary, seeking a minimum mandatory penalty of 15 years in federal prison, with the possibility of a life sentence.

The investigation was a coordinated effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tampa Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman is prosecuting the case, with Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky handling the forfeiture proceedings – meaning any assets linked to the crime could be seized by the government.

U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg emphasized that the indictment is merely an accusation, and Gary is presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, this case is part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN) initiative, a nationwide program designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement and communities.

PSN, recently strengthened under the Biden administration, focuses on building trust with communities, supporting violence prevention programs, prioritizing strategic enforcement, and rigorously measuring results. This prosecution serves as a stark warning: those who illegally possess firearms, particularly individuals with extensive criminal histories, will face the full force of federal law.

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