The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a 12-time convicted felon for possessing multiple firearms.
Deputies received information that Christopher Newman, 44, a convicted felon, was attempting to sell firearms in Tampa.
On August 24, 2025, deputies conducted surveillance on Newman’s residence, located on East Sligh Avenue, where he was observed leaving with a large bag before riding away on an e-bike.
Deputies attempted a traffic stop, but Newman fled by weaving through traffic and discarding the bag to the side of the road. Despite Newman's attempt to flee, he was quickly intercepted and taken into custody.
The discarded bag was recovered and found to contain a Marlin 3030 Lever Action Rifle that had been reported stolen in Hillsborough County, a Winchester 16 Gauge Short Barrel Shotgun, and ammunition.
Newman was released from Florida State Prison on March 20, 2025, after serving time for burglary, theft, firearms, and narcotics-related offenses. His criminal history also includes fleeing from law enforcement and battery by strangulation.
Newman is now facing the following charges:
- Felony Fleeing to Elude
- Unlawful Use of Two-Way Communications Device
- Resisting Officer Without Violence
- Possession of a Short Barreled Rifle
- Possession of a Firearm During Commission of Felony X2
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm X3
- Carrying Concealed Firearm X2
- Use of Firearm While Intoxicated
“This dangerous repeat offender had absolutely no business being in possession of firearms and ammunition,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Because of the swift and decisive work of our deputies, a convicted felon was stopped from potentially committing another violent crime, and the residents of Hillsborough County are safer as a result.”
This investigation remains ongoing, and any update will come from the Public Affairs Office.
