Florida Man's Shoplifting Spree Hits A Snag: Felon Caught With Firearm

Inside of Jail. TFP File Photo Anthony Rodriguez, Jr., a 32-year-old from Orange Park, Florida, apparently thought he could add "shoplifting" to h

Florida Jail Prison — Inside of Jail. TFP File Photo

Anthony Rodriguez, Jr., a 32-year-old from Orange Park, Florida, apparently thought he could add “shoplifting” to his already impressive resume of felony convictions. Unfortunately for him, he forgot one minor detail: convicted felons aren’t supposed to have guns.

On May 11, 2024, Rodriguez tried his hand at a five-finger discount at a Clay County retail store. Store employees, unimpressed with his amateur thievery, stopped him, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office promptly arrived on the scene. As deputies searched Rodriguez, a loaded Glock pistol decided to make a dramatic entrance, tumbling out of his clothes.

Read: Alabama Man’s Joy Ride Ends With 4-Year ‘Staycation’ Courtesy Of Uncle Sam

Now, Rodriguez wasn’t just facing a shoplifting charge. With seven prior felony convictions, including two related to firearms, he had violated federal law by possessing a gun.

Rodriguez’s attempt to spice up his life with a little shoplifting ended with a federal charge and the possibility of up to 15 years in prison. He’s also saying goodbye to his Glock pistol and ammunition, which will be forfeited.

Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.

Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.