Three men from Nashville with prior felony convictions have been charged with federal offenses related to firearms and drugs, as announced by Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, Robert E. McGuire. Carlos J. Rodriguez, aged 27, was charged on January 24 with being a felon in possession of a firearm. George Charles Carter, III, aged 48, faced charges on the same day for being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Keontis Jenkins, aged 28, was charged on January 27 with being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Robert E. McGuire stated, “We are ramping up our efforts to protect our community from those who would illegally possess guns and those who would sell drugs.” He emphasized the urgency of acting upon evidence to support federal charges, especially concerning dangerous drugs and firearms.
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According to court documents, Rodriguez was observed conducting suspected narcotics transactions on September 25, 2024, in Nashville. Following a search of his car, law enforcement found ammunition and materials suggesting drug sales. Rodriguez, previously convicted of a felony drug offense, admitted to possessing the ammunition.
Carter was involved in a shooting incident on January 19, 2025, captured on surveillance cameras. After a high-speed pursuit, he was arrested and admitted to discarding a bag containing cocaine and methamphetamine. He has prior felony convictions for Aggravated Assault and Simple Possession in Tennessee.
Jenkins was arrested on January 14, 2025, for attempted homicide. A search revealed firearms and drugs, including fentanyl and Xanax, at his residence. Jenkins admitted to selling drugs and using firearms for protection during transactions. He has previous felony convictions for Reckless Endangerment and Contraband in a Penal Facility.
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating these cases, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel M. Stephens. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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