Jacksonville, Florida, January 1, 2026
The State Attorney’s Office in Jacksonville has completed an eight-month investigation into an unauthorized gun registry created by city officials. The investigation revealed that the registry, which recorded personal information of individuals entering city buildings with firearms, was established without proper approval. Although the registry violated Florida law, no charges will be filed due to the lack of criminal intent, leading to recommendations for better oversight and legal compliance in the future.
Jacksonville, Florida
State Attorney’s Office Declines to File Charges Over Unauthorized Gun Registry
The State Attorney’s Office has concluded an eight-month investigation into an unauthorized gun registry maintained by the City of Jacksonville, determining that no charges will be filed. The registry, which recorded personal information of individuals carrying firearms into city buildings, was established in July 2023 without proper administrative approval, violating Florida’s prohibition on such registries. The investigation found no evidence of criminal intent or misuse of the collected data, attributing the breach to poor communication and lack of oversight rather than intentional misconduct. Mayor Donna Deegan and her senior staff were unaware of the policy, which was implemented by a public works manager concerned with building security. The practice ceased immediately upon discovery in April 2025. The State Attorney’s Office has recommended stronger legal reviews and audits to prevent future violations. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has expressed dissatisfaction with the decision and indicated that his office will follow up.
Background of the Unauthorized Gun Registry
In July 2023, following the enactment of Florida’s permitless carry law, a public works manager initiated a policy to log individuals entering city buildings while carrying concealed firearms. This action was taken without the knowledge or approval of Mayor Deegan or her administration. The registry was intended to enhance emergency preparedness but inadvertently violated state laws prohibiting the creation of gun registries by government entities. The practice was discontinued upon discovery in April 2025.
Investigation Findings
The State Attorney’s Office’s investigation revealed that the unauthorized registry was established by a public works manager without proper administrative approval. The data collected was not shared, copied, or used improperly. The breach was attributed to poor communication and lack of oversight, not intentional misconduct. The investigation also uncovered a breakdown in communication and oversight, with city lawyers not reviewing the directive to keep the registry.
Reactions and Recommendations
Mayor Deegan’s office fully cooperated with the State Attorney’s Office and emphasized that the policy was implemented by an individual employee without the knowledge of the administration. The practice was immediately ended upon discovery. The State Attorney’s Office has recommended stronger legal reviews and audits to prevent future violations. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has expressed dissatisfaction with the decision and indicated that his office will follow up.
Implications for Jacksonville
The decision not to file charges concludes a significant investigation into the City of Jacksonville’s practices regarding firearm registries. The case highlights the importance of clear communication and adherence to state laws in the implementation of security policies. The recommended audits and legal reviews aim to ensure compliance with state regulations and prevent similar issues in the future.
FAQ
What was the unauthorized gun registry in Jacksonville?
In July 2023, a public works manager in Jacksonville initiated a policy to log individuals entering city buildings while carrying concealed firearms. This registry was established without proper administrative approval, violating Florida’s prohibition on such registries. The practice was discontinued upon discovery in April 2025.
Why were no charges filed in this case?
The State Attorney’s Office concluded that there was no evidence of criminal intent or misuse of the collected data. The breach was attributed to poor communication and lack of oversight, not intentional misconduct. As a result, no charges were filed.
What recommendations were made following the investigation?
The State Attorney’s Office recommended stronger legal reviews and audits to prevent future violations. These measures aim to ensure compliance with state regulations and improve oversight within the city’s security policies.
How did Mayor Deegan respond to the findings?
Mayor Deegan’s office fully cooperated with the State Attorney’s Office and emphasized that the policy was implemented by an individual employee without the knowledge of the administration. The practice was immediately ended upon discovery.
What are the implications for Jacksonville following this investigation?
The decision not to file charges concludes a significant investigation into the City of Jacksonville’s practices regarding firearm registries. The case highlights the importance of clear communication and adherence to state laws in the implementation of security policies. The recommended audits and legal reviews aim to ensure compliance with state regulations and prevent similar issues in the future.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unauthorized Gun Registry | A registry established in July 2023 by a public works manager to log individuals entering city buildings while carrying concealed firearms, without proper administrative approval. |
| Investigation Outcome | The State Attorney’s Office found no evidence of criminal intent or misuse of data, attributing the breach to poor communication and lack of oversight. No charges were filed. |
| Recommendations | Stronger legal reviews and audits to prevent future violations and ensure compliance with state regulations. |
| Mayor’s Response | Mayor Deegan’s office emphasized that the policy was implemented by an individual employee without the administration’s knowledge and was immediately ended upon discovery. |
| Implications | The case underscores the need for clear communication and adherence to state laws in implementing security policies, with recommended audits and reviews to prevent similar issues in the future. |
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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.
