Khalil Keari Barnett, a 30-year-old resident of Gainesville, was sentenced to seven years in prison after pleading guilty to charges including possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in connection with drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The sentence was announced on May 7 by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to address violent crime and illegal drug activity in the region. The prosecution forms part of Operation Take Back America, which aims to combat threats posed by violent criminals.
"Thanks to the outstanding investigative work of the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners, another violent, drug-peddling criminal has been removed from our streets," Heekin said. "Operation Take Back America was launched to deploy the full might of the Department of Justice toward eliminating the threats to our communities posed by violent criminals like this defendant, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute those offenders until our streets are safe and drug-free."
According to court documents, deputies from the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic violence call where Barnett attempted to flee law enforcement by leaving through a back door and trying unsuccessfully to enter a rideshare vehicle before escaping on foot. During his flight he discarded a bag containing approximately 600 grams of marijuana and a black mask; officers also recovered a firearm and box of ammunition nearby. Due to his prior conviction for possession of a weapon by a delinquent, Barnett is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Alachua County Sheriff Scott said: "The arrest and subsequent federal conviction of Mr. Barnett is, once again, strong evidence to our community that we will not allow violent criminals who inflict physical harm, unlawfully possess weapons, and traffic narcotics to roam our streets in search of their next victim... It is through partnerships like our relationship with the US Attorney’s Office... that we are able to uphold that promise." The investigation involved cooperation between local authorities as well as agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida enforces federal laws—including criminal prosecutions—defends national security interests, protects civil rights across northern Florida's 23 counties including Tallahassee and Pensacola facilities,according to its official website. The office collaborates with other agencies through initiatives such as Project Safe Childhood.
Operation Take Back America continues nationwide efforts targeting cartels and transnational criminal organizations while aiming for safer communities.
