Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced that Austin Charles Wesley, aged 25 from Lehigh Acres, has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. Wesley could face up to 15 years in federal prison. The date for sentencing has not yet been scheduled.

Court documents reveal that on October 24, 2024, Wesley was stopped by the Florida Highway Patrol for speeding on SR-82 in Lee County. During the stop, officers found a loaded Walther .22 caliber handgun hidden under Wesley's clothing. As a multi-time convicted felon with previous sentences served in Florida state prison for various crimes, Wesley is legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

The investigation of this case was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the Fort Myers Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Simon Eth is prosecuting the case.

This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement and communities. On May 26, 2021, the Department introduced a strategy to enhance PSN focusing on building community trust and legitimacy, supporting organizations that prevent violence, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.