John D. Ford, 49, of Panama City, Florida, pleaded guilty on Mar. 12 to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in federal court. The announcement was made by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The case highlights ongoing efforts to address violent crime and illegal firearm possession among individuals with prior felony convictions. Authorities say such prosecutions are part of broader initiatives aimed at improving public safety.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Operation Take Back America was launched to devote the full might of the Department of Justice toward removing violent criminals, like this defendant, from our communities to deliver the safe streets our citizens deserve. This serial felon has demonstrated a complete disregard for our laws and the safety of our community, so we must ensure he remains locked away in prison as long as possible.”
According to court documents, law enforcement officers from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives assisted the Bay County Sheriff’s Office in executing a search warrant at Ford’s residence in Panama City. Officers found three firearms—a short-barreled shotgun and two pistols—in his bedroom along with paperwork containing his biographical information and court records. After being advised of his rights, Ford admitted that one of the firearms belonged to him. A search warrant for his cellphone revealed messages suggesting he was trading or selling these firearms. Ford is prohibited from possessing firearms due to twelve prior felony convictions.
Ford faces up to fifteen years in prison at sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain is prosecuting the case.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 20 at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.
This prosecution falls under Operation Take Back America—a nationwide initiative focused on combating illegal immigration and eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators.
The United States Attorney’s Office also encourages residents to lock their car doors at night since burglaries from unlocked vehicles are a significant source of guns for criminals in northern Florida.
