Gainesville Man Arrested for Firearm Possession After Reporting It Stolen

Anterio Jaquez Sheppard, 26, faces charges for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Anterio Jaquez Sheppard, a 26-year-old Gainesville resident, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon after reporting the firearm stolen and admitting to routinely carrying it with a customized grip and extended magazine.

Why it matters

Sheppard's arrest highlights the complex issues surrounding gun ownership and possession, especially for those with prior felony convictions. The case raises questions about firearm regulations, law enforcement procedures, and the challenges of balancing public safety with individual rights.

The details

According to police, Sheppard approached an officer on December 26, 2025, and reported that someone had punched him and taken his gun. Sheppard admitted to routinely carrying the firearm, which he had customized with a grip and extended magazine, and said he usually carried it with a full magazine of 22 rounds plus one in the chamber. Surveillance footage and a witness corroborated Sheppard's possession of the gun prior to the alleged robbery.

  • On December 26, 2025, Sheppard reported the firearm stolen to a Gainesville Police Department officer.
  • On January 30, a warrant for Sheppard's arrest was issued by Judge Robert Groeb.

The players

Anterio Jaquez Sheppard

A 26-year-old Gainesville resident with a prior felony conviction for burglary in 2018, who was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Judge Robert Groeb

The judge who issued a warrant for Sheppard's arrest.

Judge Susan Miller-Jones

The judge who set Sheppard's bail at $100,000.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Sheppard reportedly said he routinely carries the firearm and had purchased a custom grip and extended magazine for the pistol after his girlfriend bought him the firearm as a gift.”

— Anterio Jaquez Sheppard (alachuachronicle.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to allow Sheppard to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing public safety and individual rights when it comes to firearm possession, especially for those with prior criminal records. It raises questions about the effectiveness of existing laws and the need for continued dialogue on this complex issue.