Tampa Republic

United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg has announced the unsealing of an indictment against Elijah Noah Petit-Frere, a 24-year-old from Orlando. Petit-Frere is charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. If found guilty, he could face up to 15 years in federal prison. He is currently detained as the case proceeds.

The indictment states that on March 11, 2024, Petit-Frere was in possession of a firearm and ammunition despite his previous felony convictions. These include carrying a concealed firearm, possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana, and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer. Under federal law, individuals with felony convictions are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

It is important to note that an indictment is simply a formal charge indicating alleged violations of federal criminal law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The investigation was conducted by the Ocala Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg will prosecute the case.

This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement at all levels and community organizations. The program focuses on fostering trust within communities, supporting violence prevention initiatives, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and evaluating outcomes.