Staff report based on press release from U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – James C. Mobley, aged 43 from Gainesville, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after being found guilty of possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin remarked, “This sentence underscores our commitment to community safety and emphasizes the serious repercussions of violating federal firearm laws. We commend the exceptional efforts of our law enforcement partners, ensuring accountability for this armed felon’s ongoing criminal actions.”

On July 11, 2024, officers from the Gainesville Police Department pulled Mobley over for speeding. A search of his vehicle revealed a loaded revolver along with quantities of various illegal drugs meant for distribution. Mobley entered a guilty plea on April 28, 2025, the day his trial was scheduled to begin. He was sentenced as an armed career criminal due to his history of multiple serious drug-related felonies.

Chief Nelson Moya of the Gainesville Police Department declared, “We will not tolerate gun crimes in our community. To those bringing guns and drugs to our neighborhoods: we will locate you and collaborate with our justice partners to ensure you are held responsible. Safety is our community’s right.”

After serving his prison sentence, Mobley will undergo five years of supervised release. This conviction was the product of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with the Gainesville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Harley W. Ferguson and Adam Hapner.

This case falls under Operation Take Back America, a national initiative that galvanizes the full capabilities of the Department of Justice to combat illegal immigration, eradicate cartels and international criminal organizations, and safeguard communities from violent crime. Operation Take Back America consolidates efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood initiatives.