Jesse Lee McKenzie, a 43-year-old resident of Jacksonville, was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison for threatening to retaliate against a witness in a federal case, according to a March 6 announcement by U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe.
The sentencing highlights the seriousness with which federal authorities treat threats against witnesses involved in criminal cases. Protecting witnesses is considered essential for the integrity of the justice system and the successful prosecution of crimes.
Court documents show that an associate of McKenzie had been indicted for distributing methamphetamine. In July 2025, McKenzie posted on his Facebook page identifying a witness in that drug trafficking case by name and photograph. The post labeled the individual as a “snitch” and included threats of physical harm, stating he would “wire that snitch box up” as retaliation for cooperating with law enforcement. McKenzie also offered a “tip” in exchange for information about the witness’s location.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation into McKenzie’s actions. Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney prosecuted the case.
This prosecution falls under Operation Take Back America, an initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at combating illegal immigration, dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime. The operation coordinates resources from programs such as Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
As part of ongoing efforts to safeguard witnesses and uphold public safety, authorities continue to pursue cases involving threats or intimidation related to federal investigations.
