William Hernandez, a 27-year-old resident of Hawthorne, Florida, has been indicted on federal charges related to drug and firearm offenses. The announcement was made by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Hernandez is accused of possessing with intent to distribute more than five grams of methamphetamine, carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. His arraignment is set for July 29, 2025, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville, Florida.
If found guilty, Hernandez could face life imprisonment. The investigation involved the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Gainesville Police Department, with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Prosecutors on the case are Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Adam Hapner.
The indictment serves as an allegation and not evidence of guilt. Hernandez remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations while protecting communities from violent crime. The operation utilizes resources from various Department of Justice task forces.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida operates under the direction of the Attorney General as one of 94 such offices nationwide.
