Investigation Launched into Alleged Illegal Gun Registry in Jacksonville

Jacksonville – A criminal investigation by the State Attorney’s Office is underway regarding an alleged illegal gun registry maintained by the City of Jacksonville. This investigation might be the first instance in which Florida’s two-decade-old law prohibiting gun registries will be enforced against local government officials. At least nine current and former city officials have received subpoenas as part of the ongoing inquiry.

The investigation was triggered by reports that the City of Jacksonville initiated the logging of names of individuals who entered city buildings while carrying concealed firearms. This practice began on July 24, 2023, shortly after Mayor Donna Deegan took office and just days following the activation of Florida’s permitless carry law. Mayor Deegan’s office maintains that the logging policy was established prior to her administration, with draft documentation dated June 30, 2023.

Deegan’s spokesperson has stated that the mayor was unaware of the implementation of this controversial policy, which was reportedly directed by a city employee to a private security company without her knowledge. The logging practice ceased immediately after her office became aware of it on April 21, 2025.

Governor Ron DeSantis has called for accountability for those involved in creating the logs, labeling secret gun registries as entirely unacceptable. The investigation has had political implications, particularly as the upcoming gubernatorial race heats up. Congressman Byron Donalds, a Republican candidate backed by Donald Trump, has voiced the need for accountability regarding the situation.

The subpoenas issued in the investigation are seeking emails, texts, and other communications related to guns and registries from city officials. Those subpoenaed include the current Chief Administration Officer Karen Bowling and former officials such as Bob Rhodes, Jason Teal, and Lakeisha Burton. These requests extend back to November 2022, during the tenure of prior Mayor Lenny Curry, and focus on communications concerning security checkpoint policies.

Both Deegan and Curry have maintained that the gun logging policy did not originate under their leadership, claiming it was enacted on the final day of Curry’s administration. In response to the investigation, Deegan has committed to reviewing city policies to ensure compliance with state laws and has reiterated the importance of checks and balances within city governance.

The ramifications of the alleged illegal gun registration practices could expose the City of Jacksonville to both criminal and civil penalties. According to Florida Statutes 790.335, fines for such violations could total up to $5 million. In light of this, Deegan has defended the decision to hire an outside law firm to represent city employees involved in the investigation, asserting that there is no conflict of interest in doing so.

The City Council has pledged to cooperate with the State Attorney’s Office during the investigation, acknowledging the possibility that laws may have been breached. This situation has prompted a wider examination of the city’s security procedures and policies concerning the entry of firearms into municipal buildings. Ongoing reviews are essential to align city practices with existing state laws and ensure the safety and compliance of Jacksonville’s policies moving forward.