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Felon Faces 15 Years in Prison After Indictment on Firearm, Ammunition Charges

Felon Ernest Thomas II indicted for illegal firearm possession. Faces 15 years. Trial set for November 10.

September 30, 2025, 10:14 AM

Close-up of a silver revolver and scattered brass bullets on a dark surface

A silver revolver and several brass bullets are arranged on a dark, textured surface, highlighting a firearm and its ammunition. By MDL.

Executive Summary

Ernest L. Thomas II, a 35-year-old convicted felon from Pensacola, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.

If convicted, Thomas faces a maximum sentence of fifteen years in federal prison, with a jury trial scheduled for November 10, 2025.

This case is part of “Operation Take Back America,” a nationwide Department of Justice initiative focused on combating illegal immigration, dismantling criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime, including illegal firearm possession.

Laws and Precedent

The defendant was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, a violation of federal law that prohibits individuals with prior felony convictions from owning or possessing firearms. This case, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in federal court under federal jurisdiction, carries a maximum potential sentence of fifteen years in federal prison, reflecting federal sentencing guidelines for such offenses.

Pensacola, Florida – Ernest L. Thomas II, a 35-year-old Pensacola resident, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The indictment, announced by U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida, follows his arraignment on September 23, 2025, with a jury trial scheduled for November 10, 2025. If convicted, Thomas faces a maximum sentence of fifteen years in federal prison.

Legal Proceedings Underway

Thomas appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho for his arraignment in federal court in Pensacola. The upcoming trial, where the government will present its case, will be presided over by District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office jointly conducted the investigation into Thomas’s alleged illegal possession. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher C. Patterson is prosecuting the case for the government.

Operation Take Back America Context

This case falls under “Operation Take Back America,” a nationwide Department of Justice initiative. This operation aims to combat illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent crime.

The initiative integrates resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). It represents a streamlined effort to address complex criminal activities across the country.

Federal Commitment to Public Safety

The indictment of Ernest L. Thomas II underscores ongoing federal efforts to address illegal firearm possession by convicted felons. His case highlights the Department of Justice’s commitment, through initiatives like “Operation Take Back America,” to enhance public safety and prosecute individuals who violate federal law.