Clay County Convicted Felon Sentenced To Over 6 Years In Federal Prison On Drug And Firearm Charges

Jacksonville, Florida - Chief United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Edward Sherwood Gustafson, IV, (31, Green Cove Springs) to 6 years and 3 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The court also ordered Gustafson to forfeit a Smith and Wesson pistol and 15 rounds of ammunition traceable to the firearm offense. Gustafson was arrested on May 9, 2023, and ordered detained. He entered a guilty plea on August 31, 2023.

According to court documents, on January 21, 2023, members of the Clay County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) were looking for Gustafson based on an active felony arrest warrant. A CCSO deputy observed him driving and initiated a traffic stop. Upon stopping, Gustafson immediately got out of his truck and a struggle ensued between him and the deputy. The deputy eventually handcuffed and arrested Gustafson based on the felony arrest warrant. During a subsequent search of Gustafson's truck, officers located a loaded Smith and Wesson pistol. Underneath the truck's hood, a travel bag was zip-tied to the engine bay area which contained cocaine, methamphetamine, a scale for weighing drugs, approximately 50 small baggies, and numerous pills. Further investigation determined that the total weight of the methamphetamine was approximately 22 grams and that Gustafson had seven prior felony convictions to include felony domestic battery, fleeing and eluding law enforcement, and shooting a deadly missile. As a convicted felon, Gustafson is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

"As we fight the scourge of drugs that plague our communities, we are grateful for our partnership with the US Attorney's Office. Together we will continue to hold accountable those who choose to sell this poison in our streets," said Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook.

This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff's Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives - Jacksonville Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.