Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
Former Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy Bill Culpepper, 57, of Havana, Florida, has been indicted on federal charges for possessing multiple illegal firearms, including machine guns, unregistered short-barrel rifles, and an unmarked silencer. Culpepper appeared for his arraignment in federal court in Tallahassee on September 11, 2025, with his trial scheduled for November 4, 2025. The charges were announced by United States Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida.
Indictment Details and Penalties
The indictment against Culpepper includes three counts of possession of a machine gun, three counts of possession of an unregistered firearm/short-barrel rifle, and one count of possession of an unmarked silencer. If convicted on these charges, Culpepper faces a maximum penalty of up to ten years in prison for each count.
Court Proceedings
Culpepper’s arraignment took place before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee. His trial is set to commence at 8:30 a.m. on November 4, 2025, before United States Chief District Judge Allen C. Winsor.
Investigation and Prosecution
The investigation into Culpepper’s activities was a collaborative effort involving the Tallahassee Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Eric K Mountin is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.
Legal Presumption
It is important to note that an indictment represents an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has violated federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial, where the government bears the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Part of “Operation Take Back America”
This case is part of “Operation Take Back America,” a comprehensive nationwide initiative led by the Department of Justice. The operation aims to utilize the full resources of the DOJ to address illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and enhance community safety by combating violent crime.
The federal indictment of a former law enforcement officer underscores the ongoing efforts by federal agencies to enforce firearms laws and combat illegal weapons possession. Culpepper’s upcoming trial will further determine the outcome of these serious allegations as part of the broader “Operation Take Back America” initiative.
