Clay County Man Indicted on Firearm and Drug Charges
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Edward Sherwood Gustafson, IV (30, Green Cove Springs) with two counts of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance involving methamphetamine and cocaine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Gustafson faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of drug distribution and up to 15 years in federal prison for the firearm offense. The indictment also notifies Gustafson that the United States intends to forfeit a Smith and Wesson pistol and ammunition traceable to the firearm offense. The court ordered Gustafson detained pending trial. His trial is set for July 2023.
According to the indictment, on January 21, 2023, Gustafson possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. At the time of the drug offenses, he also possessed a firearm and ammunition. Gustafson has seven previous felony convictions, and therefore, is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.
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