News Summary
De’Quan Franks, a 25-year-old from Jacksonville, has been sentenced to four years and six months in federal prison for possessing a modified machine gun. His arrest followed a social media post showcasing the weapon, sparking a significant investigation by law enforcement. Franks, who had prior felony convictions, was prohibited from having firearms. The case highlights the ongoing fight against gun violence in the community, emphasizing the importance of legal compliance and public safety.
Jacksonville Young Man Sentenced for Illegal Gun Possession
In a significant ruling from a Jacksonville courtroom, De’Quan Franks, a 25-year-old local resident, has received a sentence of four years and six months in federal prison. This sentence follows his guilty plea regarding illegal possession of a weapon modified to function as a machine gun, an alarming twist in the ongoing discussions about gun control and safety.
A Troubling Discovery
The case unfolded when Franks made the questionable decision to share a photograph on social media back in October 2023. In that post, he showcased a Glock firearm equipped with an oversized magazine, raising eyebrows and eventually drawing the attention of law enforcement. This seemingly innocent social media post quickly became the catalyst for a thorough investigation, with local authorities determined to ensure public safety.
Upon being tracked down by the police, Franks attempted to escape. However, during his frantic getaway, he dropped the gun that had caused all the commotion. When authorities retrieved the firearm, they found it was not only loaded but also outfitted with a 30-round magazine and had been unlawfully modified to operate as a machine gun. This modification transformed the pistol from a standard firearm into a far more dangerous weapon, heightening concerns about gun-related violence in the community.
Previous Convictions and Legal Restrictions
The legal troubles for Franks didn’t begin with this incident. Having a prior felony conviction meant he was already legally prohibited from possessing any sort of firearm or ammunition, leading to more severe consequences for his actions. Under federal law, engaging in such behavior places individuals in direct conflict with regulations designed to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands, especially for those with criminal backgrounds.
A Team Effort in Law Enforcement
The investigation into Franks’ case was no small feat and involved multiple law enforcement agencies. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) worked alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in a determined effort to bring him to justice. Their collaboration underscores the importance of teamwork in tackling issues of gun violence and ensuring the safety of the community.
Prosecution Under Project Safe Neighborhoods
The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Taylor, under the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. This program is focused on reducing violent crime, particularly gun violence, in the United States. Such initiatives highlight the ongoing commitment from federal authorities to address these pressing concerns in a proactive manner.
U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard presided over the sentencing and emphasized the seriousness of Franks’ actions. It is evident that this case serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences that come from illegal gun possession and modifications, especially for someone with a criminal history like Franks.
Looking Ahead
Upon completing his prison term, Franks will face an additional three years of supervised release. This period of oversight is designed to monitor former inmates as they reintegrate into society, helping to reduce recidivism and maintain public safety. It remains to be seen how this situation will impact Franks’ future and whether it will serve as a lesson for others who might be tempted to engage in similar illegal activities.
Overall, Franks’ case is a significant chapter in Jacksonville’s ongoing battle against gun violence and illegal firearms. It has sparked conversations in the community about safety, responsibility, and the critical nature of adhering to the laws designed to protect everyone. As law enforcement continues to crack down on illegal weapons, residents are reminded of the importance of reporting suspicious activities to help keep their neighborhoods safe.
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Additional Resources
- Action News Jax
- Wikipedia: Gun Control in the United States
- Hoodline
- Google Search: Jacksonville illegal firearm possession
- WOKV
- Google Scholar: Illegal Firearm Possession
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
- CBS News
- Google News: Jacksonville gun violence
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
