Jacksonville, Florida, February 2, 2026
David Neil Haas, a 38-year-old from Clay County, Florida, has been sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a loaded firearm as a convicted felon. The charge arose from an August traffic stop where law enforcement uncovered a concealed 9mm pistol while Haas was operating a motorcycle without a tag. His prior convictions, including for serious offenses, prohibited him from owning firearms. This case highlights ongoing efforts through Project Safe Neighborhoods to combat gun violence and enhance public safety.
Jacksonville, Florida – Convicted Felon Sentenced to Nearly Four Years for Possessing Loaded Firearm
Jacksonville, Florida – David Neil Haas, 38, a Clay County resident, has been sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. This sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Jordan E. Pratt on January 29, 2026. Haas had pleaded guilty to the charge in September 2025.
The conviction stems from an incident in August 2025, when Haas was stopped by law enforcement for operating a motorcycle without a tag and while his license was suspended. During the traffic stop, deputies observed a bulge in Haas’s vest, leading to the discovery of a loaded 9mm pistol containing 13 rounds of ammunition. Given Haas’s prior felony convictions, including possession of methamphetamine and grand theft, he was legally prohibited from possessing firearms. Additionally, he had convictions for sexually assaulting multiple women in 2002 and for misdemeanor battery in 2019. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration among law enforcement and communities.
Background on Project Safe Neighborhoods
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a nationwide initiative that brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, making neighborhoods safer for everyone. Launched in 2021, PSN focuses on fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting organizations that help prevent violence, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
Recent Sentences for Firearm Possession by Convicted Felons in Florida
Several individuals in Florida have recently been sentenced for illegally possessing firearms as convicted felons:
- Ronrico Lionel Farmer, 33, from Ocala, was sentenced to five years and four months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Farmer had a prior felony conviction for drug distribution.
- Matthew Junior Rice, 43, from Jacksonville, received a sentence of seven years and three months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Rice had an active warrant for his arrest at the time of his apprehension.
- Prashant M. Jenkins Jr., 24, from Escambia County, was sentenced to four years in federal prison for possession of an unregistered machine gun. Jenkins had a prior felony conviction for drug trafficking.
Legal Context
Under federal law, individuals with prior felony convictions are prohibited from possessing firearms. Violations of this statute can result in significant prison sentences, as illustrated by the cases above. The enforcement of these laws is part of broader efforts to reduce gun violence and enhance public safety.
Conclusion
The sentencing of David Neil Haas underscores the legal consequences of firearm possession by convicted felons in Florida. These cases highlight ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to enforce firearm regulations and promote community safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was David Neil Haas convicted of?
David Neil Haas, 38, a Clay County resident, was convicted of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. He was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison on January 29, 2026.
What led to Haas’s arrest?
Haas was stopped by law enforcement in August 2025 for operating a motorcycle without a tag and while his license was suspended. During the stop, deputies discovered a loaded 9mm pistol containing 13 rounds of ammunition concealed in his vest.
What is Project Safe Neighborhoods?
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a nationwide initiative that brings together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, making neighborhoods safer for everyone.
What are the penalties for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon in Florida?
Under federal law, individuals with prior felony convictions are prohibited from possessing firearms. Violations of this statute can result in significant prison sentences, as demonstrated by the cases of Ronrico Lionel Farmer, Matthew Junior Rice, and Prashant M. Jenkins Jr. in Florida.
How does the legal system handle firearm possession by convicted felons?
The legal system enforces strict penalties for firearm possession by convicted felons to deter gun violence and enhance public safety. Convicted felons found in possession of firearms face federal charges and, upon conviction, can receive substantial prison sentences.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | David Neil Haas, 38, Clay County resident |
| Conviction | Possession of a firearm as a convicted felon |
| Sentence | 46 months in federal prison |
| Incident Date | August 2025 |
| Discovery | Loaded 9mm pistol with 13 rounds found during traffic stop |
| Prior Convictions | Possession of methamphetamine, grand theft, sexual assault, misdemeanor battery |
| Investigating Agencies | Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Clay County Sheriff’s Office |
| Prosecutor | Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta |
| Program Involved | Project Safe Neighborhoods |
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