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Ocala
Thursday, March 28, 2024

30-year-old Ocala convicted felon indicted for illegally possessing firearm

United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg has announced the arrest of 30-year-old Ricky Darnell Franklin, Jr. from Ocala on an indictment charging him with possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Franklin faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, if convicted. He had been indicted on May 24, 2022.

Ricky Darnell Franklin, Jr.
Ricky Darnell Franklin, Jr.

According to the indictment, Franklin has four prior state felony convictions, including two convictions for attempted second degree murder with a firearm (2010), shooting at or into an occupied vehicle (2010), and possession of a firearm by a delinquent (2010).

On September 30, 2021, Franklin allegedly possessed a handgun. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.

An indictment is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a federal criminal offense. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

This case is being investigated by the Ocala Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk.