A collection of firearms and ammunition displayed on a table

Various firearms and different types of ammunition are laid out on a table, suggesting a display related to drug and firearm charges or evidence. By MDL.

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Florida Man Faces Life in Prison After Pleading Guilty to Drug and Firearm Charges

Florida man Velazquez Rodas pleaded guilty to drug and firearm charges. Faces life imprisonment at December sentencing.

byEditorial Staff

September 22, 2025, 4:43 PM

Executive Summary

Ramon Velazquez Rodas, 46, pleaded guilty in federal court to possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Velazquez Rodas, a convicted felon with an extensive criminal history, faces a potential sentence of up to life imprisonment.

The case resulted from a collaborative investigation involving the Tallahassee Police Department, DEA, and ATF, praised by U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin.

Laws and Precedent

The defendant pleaded guilty to federal charges of possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute, falling under the Controlled Substances Act, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). His potential sentence of up to life imprisonment underscores the severe federal sentencing guidelines, which are significantly influenced by his extensive criminal history and the nature of the current offenses, including the involvement of dangerous drugs and a firearm.

Ramon Velazquez Rodas, 46, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The plea was announced by United States Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida on Monday, September 22, 2025, highlighting a collaborative effort between local and federal law enforcement agencies.

Details of the Charges

Court documents reveal that the charges stem from an August 2022 drug investigation. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a Tallahassee residence where Velazquez Rodas was present.

Inside a bedroom occupied by Velazquez Rodas and another individual, authorities discovered methamphetamine and fentanyl. They also found a stolen handgun, $2,900 in cash, and various items consistent with drug distribution activities.

Defendant’s Criminal History

Velazquez Rodas is a convicted felon with a lengthy criminal record. His previous felony convictions include Burglary of a Dwelling, Burglary of an Unoccupied Dwelling, Possession of Burglary Tools, Dealing in Stolen Property, and multiple counts of Possession of Controlled Substances.

Due to his extensive criminal history and the nature of the current offenses, Velazquez Rodas faces a potential sentence of up to life imprisonment.

Law Enforcement Collaboration

U.S. Attorney Heekin commended the joint investigation, stating, “This case demonstrates the value of close collaboration between our local and federal law enforcement officers to target, investigate, and arrest the criminals flooding our streets with deadly drugs.” Heekin reaffirmed his office’s commitment to supporting law enforcement efforts with aggressive prosecutions to enhance community safety.

The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the Tallahassee Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin is prosecuting the case.

Upcoming Sentencing

Velazquez Rodas is scheduled to be sentenced on December 4, 2025, at 2:00 pm. The sentencing will take place at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark Walker.