BROOKSVILLE, Fla. – James Hilligardt, a 21-year-old from Brooksville, has admitted guilt to possessing a firearm despite being a convicted felon. This charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison.
The sentencing date is yet to be determined.
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Court documents reveal that on January 23, 2024, Hilligardt accidentally shot himself in the leg while live streaming on social media. Responding deputies discovered him with a sawed-off shotgun.
Further investigation uncovered Hilligardt’s repeated online posts featuring firearms and ammunition, leading to the recovery of a second shotgun he had buried. Federal law prohibits convicted felons like Hilligardt from owning firearms or ammunition.
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This case was investigated jointly by the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol and Tobacco.
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