Suspected 'Young Godz' Gang Member Arrested After Drugs, Guns Found at Tampa Home

Lavardis Howard, an eight-time convicted felon, was taken into custody during an ongoing investigation into the Young Godz gang.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested 29-year-old Lavardis Howard, an eight-time convicted felon, during an investigation into the Young Godz gang operating in the Grant Park area of Tampa. Detectives found two pistols, one of which was stolen, about two pounds of marijuana, mushrooms, marijuana wax and ammunition during a search of Howard's Tampa home.

Why it matters

This arrest is part of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's ongoing efforts to target gang activity and the illegal possession of firearms and distribution of drugs in the community. The Young Godz gang has been a focus of law enforcement investigations in the Tampa area.

The details

On February 24, Gang Unit detectives served a search warrant at Howard's residence in Tampa and discovered the weapons, drugs and ammunition. Howard was then located and arrested on February 27 in Progress Village. He is now facing a slew of charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, felon in possession of a firearm, and various drug trafficking-related offenses.

  • On February 19, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Howard after he was involved in a domestic incident.
  • On February 24, detectives served a search warrant at Howard's home and made the discovery of the guns and drugs.
  • On February 27, Howard was located and arrested in Progress Village.

The players

Lavardis Howard

A 29-year-old eight-time convicted felon who was the primary suspect in the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's investigation into the Young Godz gang.

Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation into the Young Godz gang and arrested Lavardis Howard.

Young Godz

A gang that reportedly operates in the Grant Park area of Tampa and has been a focus of law enforcement investigations.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This arrest is the result of proactive investigative work targeting gang activity in our community. We will continue to pursue those who illegally possess firearms and distribute drugs in our neighborhoods. Our message is clear: if you are engaging in gang-related crime, we will find you and hold you accountable.”

— Sheriff Chad Chronister (Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Lavardis Howard to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This arrest highlights the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's ongoing efforts to crack down on gang activity, illegal firearms, and drug trafficking in the Tampa area. It serves as a warning to those involved in gang-related crimes that law enforcement is actively pursuing and holding them accountable.