Tampa Republic

Byron Louder, a 34-year-old resident of Orlando, has pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced that Louder faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison, with sentencing scheduled for November 6, 2024.

Court records reveal that on December 25, 2022, officers from the Orlando Police Department observed Louder engaging in several hand-to-hand transactions while carrying a firearm in his waistband. Upon arrest, Louder admitted to possessing the firearm and acknowledged his status as a prohibited person. Previously convicted of multiple felonies including delivery of cocaine and possession of controlled substances with intent to sell or deliver, Louder is legally barred from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives alongside the Orlando Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie McNeff is prosecuting the case.

This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative uniting various levels of law enforcement and community groups to combat violent crime and gun violence. The program aims to enhance neighborhood safety through principles such as fostering trust within communities, supporting violence prevention organizations, prioritizing strategic enforcement efforts, and measuring outcomes.