A Clay County man, Edward Sherwood Gustafson, IV, age 31, has been sentenced to a 6-year-and-3-month federal prison term following his guilty pleas on charges related to drug distribution and firearms violations. Chief United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan handed down the sentence, which also includes the forfeiture of a Smith and Wesson pistol and ammunition connected to the illegal activities. Gustafson, from Green Cove Springs, was taken into custody and has been detained since his arrest on May 9, 2023.
On January 21, 2023, Clay County Sheriff's Office deputies apprehended Gustafson after they spotted and stopped his vehicle due to an outstanding felony arrest warrant. Following the confrontation that occurred during the stop, a search of Gustafson's truck turned up not only the loaded firearm but also a hidden bag—tied under the hood—storing cocaine, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and pills. An investigation revealed that he had in his possession approximately 22 grams of meth, and, due to his seven prior felony convictions, for charges including domestic battery and fleeing law enforcement, he was barred from owning a firearm or ammunition.
"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," commented Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook. This case is a demonstration of the joint efforts between local law enforcement and federal agencies to tackle drug-related crimes, under the revitalized Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative.
The case against Gustafson was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff's Office alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein led the prosecution, The effort falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaborative approaches between all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve.
