Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
Crawfordville, Florida resident Jason Rigdon, 44, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison in Tallahassee on Friday, November 14, 2025, after pleading guilty to charges related to methamphetamine distribution and illegal firearm possession. The sentencing follows an investigation that uncovered his involvement in drug and gun trafficking, leading to the seizure of multiple firearms, including stolen weapons, and methamphetamine from his residence.
Investigation Details
Rigdon pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida stated, “Our state and federal law enforcement partners did a great job removing this violent, drug-dealing felon from our streets, and my office will continue to support their efforts with aggressive federal prosecutions to keep our communities healthy and safe.”
In February 2025, investigators received intelligence indicating Rigdon, a multi-time convicted felon, was engaged in trafficking methamphetamine and illegal firearms. Controlled operations subsequently led to the purchase of methamphetamine and a handgun directly from him.
A search warrant executed at Rigdon’s residence in March 2025 resulted in the recovery of thirteen firearms, two of which were reported stolen. Ammunition and additional methamphetamine were also seized during his arrest and the search of his vehicle.
Rigdon’s Criminal History
Rigdon has a substantial criminal history, including prior felony convictions for Fleeing and Eluding Law Enforcement, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, Trafficking in methamphetamine, Carrying Concealed Firearms, and Possession of Methamphetamine.
Law Enforcement Collaboration
Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil highlighted the commitment to interagency cooperation, stating, “The Leon County Sheriff’s Office is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to protect our community. We will not tolerate dangerous crimes like drug trafficking and illegal firearms anywhere in our region.”
Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell reinforced this sentiment, adding, “Protecting our community from violent offenders remains one of our highest priorities. This outcome demonstrates the strength of our partnerships and the determination of law enforcement to hold accountable those who traffic dangerous drugs and illegally possess firearms.”
The conviction and sentence were the result of a collaborative investigation involving the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tallahassee Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin prosecuted the case.
Operation Take Back America
This case is part of “Operation Take Back America,” a nationwide Department of Justice initiative. The operation aims to combat illegal immigration, eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent crime. U.S. Attorney Heekin noted that the successful prosecution is a step toward achieving the goals of this initiative.
Impact of Sentencing
The significant prison sentence for Jason Rigdon underscores the ongoing efforts by federal and local law enforcement to disrupt drug trafficking networks and remove illegal firearms from communities. This collaborative approach aims to enhance public safety and hold repeat offenders accountable for their actions.
