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Staff Report
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In a federal court session yesterday, 35-year-old DeShawn Russ from Jacksonville admitted to charges of possessing ammunition as a convicted felon. The announcement came from John P. Heekin, the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin expressed gratitude for the diligent efforts of both state and federal law enforcement, which led to the apprehension of a dangerous repeat offender. “This is a significant victory for community safety,” Heekin stated, “thanks to the collaborative efforts under Operation Take Back America. We remain committed to prosecuting such cases to ensure our citizens enjoy the safe streets they deserve.”
Incident Details
The initial arrest occurred on August 3, 2025, when a Gainesville Police Department officer observed Russ in a vehicle with the victim. During the encounter, Russ reportedly threatened to kill the victim and himself while in possession of a firearm. He allegedly discharged a round in close proximity to the victim, marking the front driver’s side window with a bullet hole. Although no firearm was retrieved at the scene, authorities discovered a .380 bullet in Russ’s pocket. As a repeat offender, Russ is legally barred from owning firearms or ammunition.
The defendant faces imprisonment for up to 15 years at sentencing. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.
The case involved an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Gainesville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.