OCALA, FL – A sweeping crackdown on gun violence in Marion County has resulted in a significant reduction in firearms-related offenses, according to U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg.
The initiative, which began in July 2018, involved local, state, and federal agencies working together to combat illegal firearm possession and ammunition use. Since then, the Ocala Division of the United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted 57 firearms cases with 60 defendants, many of whom were brought from the state system.
‘The partnerships displayed here today have existed for many years, and we look forward to working with these agencies and our citizens in making this community a safer place,’ said U.S. Attorney Handberg.
As of December 31, 2022, 49 of the 60 defendants faced sentences totaling 388 years in federal prison. Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken expressed pride in the collaborative efforts, stating, ‘We have made tremendous strides to ensure that citizens feel safe in their community.’
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods emphasized the importance of community support and collaboration, noting, ‘It takes our citizen’s support and the cohesive working relationship with our fellow law enforcement agencies to keep Marion County one of the safest places to live, work, and play.’
Richard Coes, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Tampa Field Division, highlighted the joint effort, saying, ‘No agency can tackle the issue of violent crime alone. We’re proud to help contribute to protecting Central Florida’s communities.’ FBI Jacksonville Division Special Agent in Charge Sherri E. Onks echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of a team approach and the commitment of the FBI to protect communities across Florida.
The State Attorney’s Office emphasized their mission of public safety, collaborating with federal partners and local law enforcement to seek justice for crime victims, reflecting on the privilege of working and living in Marion County.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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