A 32-year-old Pensacola man already facing attempted murder charges has now been indicted on multiple federal charges, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and firearms offenses.
Jovon Booker, also known by his musical alias “Playa Pat,” was indicted last week on several federal counts, including conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. He’s also accused of laundering money through purchases of high-end jewelry.
Booker is currently being held without bond at Santa Rosa County Jail under the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. Authorities say the alleged federal crimes date back to January 2020, although further details have not yet been made public. He was arrested by U.S. Marshals on July 25.
Before the federal case, Booker was already out on bond in connection to a May 2024 nightclub shooting in Pensacola. On May 15, he allegedly shot a 36-year-old man three times inside Paparazzi nightclub, while a woman nearby was also grazed by a bullet.
Initially charged with attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery, and two firearms violations, Booker posted $355,000 bond and was released from Escambia County Jail on May 29.
However, the charges were later upgraded to attempted first-degree murder, prompting another arrest on September 11, followed by another release from jail on September 26.
Booker remained out on Pre-Trial Bond Release until his federal arrest in July.
He made his first court appearance on the federal charges last Thursday. His next trial date for the nightclub shooting is scheduled for September 24.
In its press release, the U.S. Attorney’s Office noted Booker’s rap name, “Playa Pat.” His YouTube music channel features eight music videos, several of which have attracted over 100,000 views. His latest release was posted in March 2025, during the time he was already facing the attempted murder charge.
