Toby Harris, a 46-year-old resident of Clay County, has entered a guilty plea for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announced the plea, noting that Harris could face up to 15 years in federal prison. Additionally, he may be required to forfeit a CANIK 9mm pistol and ammunition involved in the crime. A sentencing date has not yet been determined.
The incident occurred on August 27, 2024, when the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) responded to reports of reckless driving on Blanding Boulevard. After arresting the driver for DUI, officers informed Harris, who was a passenger in the vehicle, that it would be towed. Despite being instructed by law enforcement to stay away from the car, Harris approached it multiple times. He eventually moved toward a grassy area near the vehicle where deputies later found a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol on the ground where Harris had been standing. The firearm contained six rounds of ammunition with one round chambered in the barrel. At that time, Harris had several prior felony convictions which legally prohibited him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
The investigation was conducted by both the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution 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. The Department launched an enhanced violent crime reduction strategy on May 26, 2021, emphasizing trust-building within communities and supporting organizations focused on violence prevention.