Federal Judge Sentences Pensacola Felon to 15 Years

Willie Curtis Slack Jr. received a mandatory prison term for illegal firearm and ammunition possession offenses.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Drug Crime

Federal Judge Sentences Pensacola Felon to 15 Years

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A federal judge sentenced 50-year-old Willie Curtis Slack Jr. to 15 years in prison following his guilty plea on two counts of possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. The sentence follows a series of weapon seizures in the Pensacola area.

Why it matters

Slack faced enhanced mandatory penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act due to his extensive criminal history, which includes prior convictions for battery, aggravated assault, and drug trafficking.

The sentence was imposed following investigations involving the ATF, Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office, and Escambia County Sheriff's Office. Slack pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.

The players

Willie Curtis Slack Jr.

The 50-year-old defendant was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for illegal firearm possession.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

This federal law enforcement agency investigates crimes involving illegal firearms, explosives, and arson.

Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office

This local law enforcement agency serves the Florida county where the defendant resided.

Escambia County Sheriff's Office

This agency provides law enforcement services for the county including the city of Pensacola.

The details

Authorities first seized a loaded pistol and marijuana from Slack during an October 2023 traffic stop, later recovering two additional firearms and bulk ammunition in December 2024. Slack has previous felony convictions for battery, resisting an officer with violence, aggravated assault, and drug trafficking.

October 2023: Officers seized a pistol and marijuana from Slack.
December 2024: Authorities seized two additional firearms and ammunition.
October 20, 2026: Slack received his 15-year prison sentence.

Legal Context

The sentencing follows the strict federal guidelines established by the Armed Career Criminal Act. This law mandates extended prison terms for defendants with recurring violent felony convictions to address habitual criminal activity.

The conclusion of this case removes a repeat offender with a history of violent charges from the local Pensacola community. Residents may benefit from the reduction in illicit weapons possession within the surrounding Santa Rosa and Escambia counties.

The takeaway

This case highlights the rigorous application of federal sentencing enhancements for repeat felony offenders. Local residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to regional law enforcement to help maintain community safety.