State Attorney Melissa Nelson announced a new initiative Thursday to combat gun violence in Jacksonville by creating partnerships to ensure federal prosecution when necessary for violent criminals and drug dealers who possess firearms.
An on-site special agent from ATF will review all firearm cases for Nelson’s office to determine if any potential federal firearm charges need to be filed.
“We will be working closely with our state and federal law enforcement partners to ensure crimes involving the illegal possession and use of firearms will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Nelson said. “This is another step in showing the community that these types of crimes will not be tolerated.”
The new program is similar to ones already in place in Orlando and Tampa, Nelson said.
