Six-time convicted felon pleads guilty to unlawfully possessing a loaded firearm (DOJ)

Ocala, Florida - Andres Arizari Desantiago (24, Apopka) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The sentencing date has not yet been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.

According to court documents, on February 20, 2026, the Orange County Sherriff's Office (OCSO) Gang Enforcement Unit (GEU) was tracking Desantiago because he had an outstanding warrant. Officers observed Desantiago in his vehicle in a shopping plaza in Lake County. Before Desantiago exited the vehicle, an officer saw him place a firearm into the front waistband of his pants. OCSO GEU agents then made contact with Desantiago, placed him under arrest, and recovered the loaded firearm.

Desantiago is a six-time convicted felon. His previous convictions include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, burglary of a dwelling, and grand theft. As a convicted felon, Desantiago is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

This case was investigated by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orange County Sherrif's Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Angela M. Palacios.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) - the Department of Justice's nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys' offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department's commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump's Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.