U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Anthony Rodriguez, Jr., a 32-year-old resident of Orange Park, to 21 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Rodriguez was arrested on July 9, 2024, and subsequently detained.
Court records indicate that on May 11, 2024, Rodriguez was involved in shoplifting merchandise from a Wal-Mart located in Clay County. Personnel from the store intervened and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to the incident. During his arrest by CCSO officers, a loaded Glock 43 9mm pistol fell from Rodriguez's clothing. At that time, Rodriguez had seven prior felony convictions, two of which involved firearms and ammunition. Federal law prohibits individuals with felony convictions from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. On May 26, 2021, the Department introduced a strategy to reduce violent crime under PSN focused on building trust within communities, supporting community organizations that work to prevent violence, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and evaluating outcomes.