OCALA, FL – Woodrow Milton Butler, 40, of Mount Dora, Florida, is headed to federal prison for seven years after admitting to illegally possessing a firearm. Senior United States District Judge John Antoon II handed down the sentence Thursday, adding a forfeiture order for the stolen handgun and the 17 rounds of ammunition Butler had on him when busted.
The bust went down back on March 21, 2019, when Eustis Police responded to a call about a suspicious person. They found Butler sporting a loaded, stolen handgun tucked into his pants pocket. That alone was enough to land him in hot water, but Butler’s extensive criminal history sealed his fate. He’s a repeat offender, racking up a staggering nine prior state felony convictions.
Butler’s rap sheet reads like a laundry list of serious offenses: armed burglary of a dwelling, dealing cocaine, and even fleeing from law enforcement. Federal law explicitly prohibits convicted felons like Butler from owning or possessing firearms and ammunition. This wasn’t a first offense in principle, but a clear violation of federal statutes.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Eustis Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah Nowalk and Tyrie Boyer prosecuted the case, building a solid case based on the physical evidence and Butler’s lengthy record. This conviction demonstrates that repeat offenders will be held accountable.
Federal officials are touting the case as part of “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a broad program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by bringing together law enforcement at all levels and the communities they serve. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN strategy in May 2021, focusing on building trust, supporting community organizations, and prioritizing strategic enforcement.
While the feds talk about long-term strategies, the immediate outcome is clear: Woodrow Milton Butler, 40, will spend the next seven years in federal prison, and a stolen gun is off the streets. This case serves as a grim reminder that possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon carries severe consequences. The stolen handgun and 17 rounds of ammunition have been forfeited to the government.
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