Executive Summary
- Eddie Lee Shular Jr., 36, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon after his DNA was found on a weapon in a vehicle he occupied.
- Shular, who has 17 prior felony convictions, now faces a potential sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison, with sentencing scheduled for November 6, 2025.
- U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin highlighted the collaborative efforts of local and federal law enforcement, reiterating a commitment to “Take Back America” by aggressively targeting criminals.
Laws and Precedent
- The legal framework for this case centers on federal law prohibiting convicted felons from possessing firearms, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). The defendant’s guilty plea to this federal offense means his sentencing will be determined by federal guidelines, which, given his extensive criminal history, could result in a maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.
Eddie Lee Shular Jr., 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court on Thursday, August 28, 2025, to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by United States Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida, following an incident earlier this year where a firearm with Shular’s DNA was discovered in a vehicle he occupied.
Incident Details and Discovery
Court documents reveal that the incident occurred in March 2025 when a Tallahassee Police Department officer found a vehicle illegally parked overnight in Jack McLean Park. Upon making contact with the two occupants, the officer detected the smell of marijuana and observed drug paraphernalia.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, a firearm was discovered in the glove compartment. Subsequent DNA testing confirmed the presence of Shular’s DNA on the recovered weapon.
Prior Convictions and Potential Sentence
Shular has a significant criminal history, including 17 prior felony convictions, which legally prohibits him from possessing a firearm. As a result of his guilty plea, Shular now faces a potential sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison.
Official Statements and Commitment
U.S. Attorney Heekin applauded the collaborative efforts of local and federal law enforcement partners. He stated that his office remains committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to “Take Back America” by aggressively targeting criminals who endanger communities.
Investigation and Prosecution
The case involved a joint investigation conducted by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Sentencing Scheduled
Shular’s sentencing has been scheduled for November 6, 2025, at 11:00 am. The proceeding will take place at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.
This guilty plea underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to remove illegal firearms from the community and hold repeat offenders accountable. The collaboration between federal and local authorities aims to enhance public safety by addressing serious crimes involving dangerous individuals.
