Twelve-Time Convicted Felon Facing Up To Life In Federal Prison For Possession Of A Loaded Firearm

Ocala, FL – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Danny Baldwin (53, Tavares) with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Baldwin faces a minimum term of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison.

According to the indictment, Baldwin has 12 prior state felony convictions, including second-degree murder, arson, and aggravated assault with a firearm. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition under federal law. On May 22, 2024, Baldwin was in possession of a loaded firearm. Baldwin’s prior violent criminal record qualifies him for a sentencing enhancement as an Armed Career Criminal.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Eustis Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Callaos.

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.