JACKSONVILLE – U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced the return of an indictment charging Anthony Rodriguez Jr., 32, of Orange Park, with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Rodriguez faces up to 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Rodriguez that the United States intends to forfeit a Glock pistol and ammunition traceable to the firearm offense.

According to the indictment, on May 11, possessed a Glock pistol. At the time of the incident, Rodriguez had seven previous felony convictions, including two convictions involving a firearm and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office arrested Rodriguez after he was accused of shoplifting a pair of shoes and a pack of soap from the Walmart in Orange Park. According to the arrest report, he bought a video game in the electronics department, and then he put the shoes and soap in the same bag containing the game before leaving the store. The value of the items was $29.97.

Deputies found a loaded handgun on him when he was searched.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

This case was investigated by CCSO and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin C. Frein will prosecute it.