JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Jacksonville business owner was arrested on weapon charges hours after state agents raided two of his locations Tuesday.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement agents found two shotguns inside the home of William Sherpard Ellison, 69.
He was charged with two counts of possession of a firearm, weapon or ammunition by a convicted felon and booked in the Duval County jail.
His two well-known businesses, Shep's Warehouse Auction and Shep's Discount and Salvage in Jacksonville, were closed as authorities executed search warrants.
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FDLE agents found the two shotguns inside a closet and desk at his home on Shady Reach Drive.
His former charges stem from 1990 and include one count of solicitation to commit first degree murder, arson and two counts of dealing in stolen property.
He was sentenced to fifteen years in prison.
FDLE agents said the warrants served at his home and businesses were part of a long-term investigation.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office assisted law enforcement.
Dozens of agents from multiple agencies were visible at the stores and the home. Law Enforcement were seen checking out tractor trailers at a warehouse on Doolittle Road.
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The special agent in charge could not say specifically what agents are looking for, but said they are taking inventory of all items in the search warrants.
Action News Jax cameras were rolling as the owner of the businesses, Shep Ellison, was detained at his home. Investigators said he came out quietly and fully cooperated.
Ellison was later arrested, and was cooperating with the investigation, according to FDLE. It is unclear, however, what he's being investigated for.
Agents said the investigation has been going on for weeks.