18-Time Convicted Felon Arrested with Drugs and Firearms
On October 16, 2024, DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) Narcotics Unit detectives identified 18-time convicted felon, Wilford Lee Smith Jr., driving near his residence. Smith had two active felony warrants for illegal narcotics sales. Detectives approached him at his home, where they immediately spotted marijuana in plain view inside both his vehicle and residence.
A search of the home revealed over 64 grams of marijuana, 296 baggies labeled for distribution, and multiple firearms, including one reported stolen from Highlands County. As a convicted felon, Smith is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Smith was arrested and transported to the DeSoto County Jail. He now faces multiple charges, including:
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Possession of ammunition by a convicted felon
- Sale or delivery of marijuana
- Manufacture of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of marijuana over 20 grams
Sheriff Jim Potter praised the Narcotics Unit for their relentless efforts to remove illegal drugs and firearms from the community, stating, “Our detectives continue to work hard to ensure the safety of our streets.” #TeamDCSO
