A 58-year-old convicted felon from Silver Springs who shot fireworks at stray cats in his yard, prompting the arrival of law enforcement, was arrested after a firearm was allegedly found inside his home.
On Wednesday, August 7, Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a residence located in the 3990 block of NE 173rd Terrace in Silver Springs in reference to a possible shooting incident, according to the arrest report.
Upon arrival, the deputies made contact with a man, identified as David Darnell Ramos, who “perfectly matched” the description that was provided by a 911 caller. The report stated that he was detained in handcuffs outside his home, and he informed deputies that he lived there by himself.
Ramos gave deputies permission to search the interior of his residence. While inside the home, deputies allegedly found a silver and black Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun in a bedroom.
A deputy noted in the report that Ramos provided video surveillance footage, which showed that there was no shooting incident. Instead, Ramos was observed on the footage “shooting off Roman candle fireworks” at stray cats that were in his yard.
After being read his Miranda rights, Ramos stated that he had been arrested around 30 years ago for a felony drug-related charge. The report stated that a criminal history search revealed that in 1992, Ramos had been found guilty in Missouri of possessing a controlled substance.
During the post-Miranda interview, Ramos allegedly admitted to keeping the firearm next to his bed “for [his] protection.”
Ramos was arrested and transported to Marion County Jail, where he is currently being held without bond. He is being charged with possession of a weapon or ammunition by an out-of-state felon.
A court date has not been scheduled yet, according to jail records.