Terry Lavon McDonald Jr., 32, from Bradenton, has been sentenced to 7 years and 6 months in federal prison for a series of offenses, including possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. McDonald, who pleaded guilty to the charges on November 22, 2024, was also ordered to forfeit a Smith & Wesson firearm and ammunition used during the commission of the crime.
The charges stem from an investigation that began on October 5, 2023, when deputies from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office executed a residential search warrant in Bradenton. The warrant was based on controlled fentanyl purchases made from another individual at the residence.
When the warrant was executed, McDonald was the sole occupant of a vehicle backed into the driveway. During the search, officers found McDonald in possession of a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun, a digital scale, fentanyl, and cocaine.
McDonald, who had a lengthy criminal history including multiple felonies such as possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver and carrying a concealed firearm, was prohibited from owning firearms under federal law. A further search of his cellphone revealed photographs of McDonald with firearms and narcotics.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.
This sentencing highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and firearms offenses in Florida, especially involving repeat offenders.
