Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
Pensacola, Florida – Derek Samuel James Hunter, 37, of Pensacola, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison on Thursday, September 18, 2025, after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, following an incident in October 2024.
According to court records, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Medical Services responded to a report of a possible shooting in Pensacola in October 2024. At the scene, Hunter was found to be in possession of a loaded semiautomatic handgun, leading to his arrest and subsequent federal charges.
Hunter has an extensive criminal history, including prior felony convictions for Fleeing and Eluding Law Enforcement, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, and a previous charge of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He also has a conviction for Possession of Cocaine, contributing to his status as a repeat offender.
Official Statements
U.S. Attorney Heekin emphasized the importance of the sentencing in a public statement. “Thanks to the outstanding work of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the investigative assistance provided by our federal law enforcement partners, this violent felon has been taken off our streets and put back behind bars where he belongs,” Heekin stated.
Heekin reiterated the Department of Justice’s commitment to tackling violent crime. “My office will not hesitate to aggressively prosecute these crimes to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the violent criminals who have victimized our communities for too long,” he added.
Investigation and Prosecution
The successful conviction and sentencing were the result of a collaborative investigation. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office worked jointly with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives to build the case against Hunter.
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton led the prosecution efforts. The joint investigation and prosecution underscore the ongoing efforts by federal and local agencies to address gun violence and remove repeat offenders from communities.
The sentencing of Derek Samuel James Hunter to federal prison highlights the continued focus of law enforcement agencies on prosecuting individuals who illegally possess firearms, particularly those with a history of felony convictions. This case reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public safety through interagency cooperation in the Northern District of Florida.
