Gainesville, FL – A routine traffic stop in Gainesville has led to a federal firearms conviction, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between local deputies and federal authorities to remove illegal guns from the streets.
According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the case began on July 10, 2025, when Deputy T. White conducted a traffic stop involving a vehicle driven by Michael Theondra Mozell Jr., 32, of Williston, Florida. During the stop, Deputy White developed probable cause to search the vehicle.
Authorities said a loaded .25-caliber handgun was discovered inside a cross-body bag owned by Mozell. Court records indicate Mozell is a convicted felon with prior convictions that include robbery with a firearm, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of cocaine. As a result of those convictions, Mozell was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Mozell was arrested and transported to the Alachua County Jail. The case was later referred to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, according to the sheriff’s office.
In a media release, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida confirmed that Mozell has since pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Federal prosecutors also noted that marijuana and drug paraphernalia were seized during the traffic stop.
U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin credited the work of local and federal law enforcement agencies in bringing the case forward, emphasizing the role of proactive policing in preventing gun violence.
Mozell now faces up to 15 years in federal prison. Sentencing is scheduled for April 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before Chief U.S. District Judge Allen C. Winsor.
The investigation was a joint effort between the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and ATF, with the case prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie S. Utt.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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