Orlando resident Xavier Hernandez-Gerena, 34, has entered a plea of guilty to the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a charge that could lead to up to 15 years behind bars. Announced by United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg, the sentencing for Hernandez-Gerena is scheduled for October 23, as detailed in court records obtained from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida.

Following a traffic stop in July 2022, Hernandez-Gerena was discovered with a firearm close at hand, a Ruger found within an unzipped bag. His prior record includes a federal conviction for possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute. Owing to his criminal history, his possession of the firearm was a direct violation of federal law, said U.S. Attorney Handberg.

The case against Hernandez-Gerena was built by the combined efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff is handling the prosecution.