A Pensacola resident has admitted to multiple drug and firearm offenses in federal court. Damian Elliott Pressley, 38, pleaded guilty to three counts of distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, as well as possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana, and possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The announcement was made by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
“For too long, dangerous criminals like this defendant have flooded our streets with deadly drugs and violence. Thanks to President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi launching Operation Take Back America, we are deploying the full might of the Department of Justice to identify, target, and eliminate the criminal threats plaguing our communities. We will continue to deliver successful prosecutions like this one until our streets are safe and drug-free,” said U.S. Attorney Heekin.
According to court records, Pressley distributed significant quantities of methamphetamine on three occasions in October and November 2024. In December 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his home on Bobe Street in Pensacola. During the search, officers found a loaded firearm, over 200 grams of marijuana, more than 90 grams of cocaine, and $17,580 in cash. Pressley has several previous felony convictions.
Because of his prior record, Pressley faces at least 15 years in prison if convicted at sentencing but could receive up to life imprisonment.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation into Pressley’s activities. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton is prosecuting the case.
Pressley’s sentencing is scheduled for May 7, 2026 at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before District Judge T. Kent Wetherell II.
This prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America—a nationwide effort that brings together resources from across the Department of Justice to address illegal immigration issues, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and reduce violent crime as well as human and drug trafficking.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida serves under the direction of the Attorney General as one of 94 such offices nationwide. Additional information about their work can be found on their website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
