Gregory Kielma • December 10, 2023
Florida Police Department Pledges to Stop Keeping Ammunition Seized as Evidence

Florida Police Department Pledges to Stop Keeping Ammunition Seized as Evidence
By
TTAG Contributor
December 7, 2023
By Lee Williams
Last April Fools’ Day, a 61-year-old Miami man had a defensive gun usage in Florida City, Florida, which is certainly no surprise. Florida City was once considered the most dangerous city in the Sunshine State.
The man, who did not want his name used in this story, was at a fast-food restaurant when he was accosted by an individual who he now believes was emotionally disturbed. The man was filling his water bottle at a soda machine when someone behind him said, “I’m from prison. Don’t’ touch my food or I’ll kill you.” He quickly left the restaurant.
The disturbed man followed the victim outside, screaming about how he was going to kill him for touching his food.
“He was reaching in his pockets, being aggressive, saying how he was going to kill me, reaching into his pockets. He then ripped off his t-shirt and started running toward me very aggressively. I pulled my 9mm and told him to stop,” the victim said.
The victim kept walking backward, telling the suspect to stay back. At one point he tripped over some rocks, fell back onto his butt and had a negligent discharge. Fortunately, the round went into the ground striking no one. The victim got up and continued backing away from the man.
“He kept being aggressive, telling me to go ahead and shoot him. I kept walking away – about an eighth of a mile. He followed me the whole way, screaming and telling me to shoot him,” the victim said.
Florida City Police officers finally arrived. After two hours of questioning, they confiscated the victim’s Taurus G2c and two loaded magazines and then let him go. They took the disturbed man to a local mental health facility, where he was admitted for a 72-hour psychiatric hold, which is known in Florida as a Baker Act.
The incident occurred three months before Florida’s unlicensed concealed-carry law took effect, but the victim had a valid Florida Concealed Weapon or Firearm license. It took 68 days for FCPD’s investigation to conclude. The victim was not charged with any crime.
When he went to the police department to retrieve his property the ammunition was gone. The department’s property clerk, Krishen Boodoo, told him the ammunition was confiscated. “We don’t return ammo,” Boodoo allegedly said. “The department will probably use it for training.”
This policy, one expert says, is patently illegal.
“To be clear, this is theft and it’s also a preemption violation,” said Jacksonville attorney Eric Friday, a firearms law and Second Amendment rights specialist and general counsel for Florida Carry, Inc.
Florida’s powerful preemption statute declares that only the state legislature can regulate firearms. Any public official who violates the law can be removed from office and face fines of up to $5,000, which they must pay personally.
Law enforcement unlawfully confiscating firearms, ammunition and personal property is an “awful issue statewide,” Friday said. “I just filed suit against the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office over a similar issue last week,” he said.
Previously, Friday explained, Florida law allowed Sheriffs to sell confiscated arms and ammunition to Federal Firearm Licensees and then deposit the money into their budget. However, at some point the legislature realized that created an improper incentive for law enforcement. Now, when Sheriffs sell firearms or ammunition to a gun dealer, the money must be deposited into the state education fund.
“Every time a sheriff destroys a useful weapon instead of selling it to an FFL, they are taking money out of the education fund and from the children of Florida,” Friday said.
Corrections made
Florida Carry sent a letter to Florida City Police Chief Pedro Taylor, warning him of the possibility of litigation, the apparent preemption violation, and that his department, “has a policy of not returning ammunition that has been taken from licensed, law-abiding citizens.”
In an email sent Tuesday, FCPD internal affairs Detective Julian Hoyte said, “the Florida City Police Department has reviewed and is immediately correcting this matter regarding confiscation of ammunition. All correction(s) are been made (sic) to ensure ammunition is returned to licensed, law-abiding citizens. Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.”
Hoyte’s email chain contained another email, which Chief Taylor sent to his property clerk, Boodoo.
“Please see me,” the chief told his clerk.
Crime is out of control in Florida City. It has a violent crime rate of 2908.8 per 100,000 people, which is considerably higher than the national crime rate of 369.8 per 100,000 people.
Florida City’s 11,245 residents have a 1 in 34.4 chance of being a violent crime victim. In comparison statewide, Floridians have a 1 in 260.7 chance of being a violent crime victim.
In an interview Wednesday, Chief Taylor wasn’t exactly sure how long his department’s ammunition confiscation policy had been in effect.
“I would say, I’m not even sure. It’s been a while. Maybe since 2012 to 2013,” the chief said. “I’m not sure. It’s something that was just brought to my attention. I would have to see.”
As to the allegations his officers were committing theft, Chief Taylor said, “I have to talk to my attorney. We’re not stealing ammo. We have a 90-day policy. Once they don’t claim it, it’s destroyed.”
That is bunk, the victim said. He tried to reclaim his ammunition from the city well within the chief’s 90-day window. “It was defensive ammo, which isn’t cheap,” he said. “I wanted it back and they wouldn’t give it to me.”
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This story is part of the Second Amendment Foundation’s Investigative Journalism Project and is published here with their permission.

VR Firearms Training at Tactical K Training and Firearms: How ACE and Meta Are Enhancing My Students’ Skills By Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms As an instructor who has spent years teaching responsible firearm handling in real world environments, I never adopt new technology just because it’s trendy. It must add value, reinforce safety, and genuinely improve a student’s ability to make good decisions under stress. That’s why VR training with ACE and the Meta platform has earned a place in my program — not as a replacement for live fire instruction, but as a powerful tool that strengthens everything we do on the range. A Safe Way to Build Confidence Before Live Fire One of the biggest advantages of VR is the ability to introduce new shooters to firearms concepts without the pressure of recoil, noise, or the anxiety that sometimes comes with handling a real weapon for the first time. Inside the ACE training environment, students can practice stance, grip, sight alignment, and movement in a calm, controlled setting. For many beginners, this reduces the learning curve dramatically. By the time they step onto my outdoor range, they already understand the fundamentals and feel more prepared. Realistic Scenarios Without Real World Risk ACE’s scenario-based modules allow me to expose students to decision making situations that would be impossible — or unsafe — to recreate in person. They can practice threat identification, situational awareness, and de escalation in a virtual environment that feels immersive but carries zero physical risk. This aligns perfectly with my teaching philosophy: avoidance first, escape if possible, and defense only as a last resort. VR gives students a chance to experience those judgment calls in a way that’s both educational and emotionally manageable. Repetition Without Fatigue In VR, students can repeat drills endlessly without burning through ammunition or dealing with physical fatigue. That means more reps, more consistency, and more opportunities to correct mistakes early. Whether it’s drawing from concealment, moving to cover, or practicing reloads, VR allows for focused, efficient skill building that complements the hands-on work we do with real firearms. A Bridge Between Technology and Practical Training I’ve found that VR doesn’t replace the range — it enhances it. Students who train with ACE and Meta tend to arrive more confident, more aware, and more mentally prepared. When they transition to live fire, they absorb instruction faster and make fewer fundamental errors. For experienced shooters, VR offers a way to sharpen decision making and refine tactics without the limitations of physical space. For beginners, it provides a gentle introduction that builds comfort and competence. The Future of Responsible Firearms Education As technology evolves, so does the way we teach. VR training with ACE and Meta has become a valuable part of my curriculum because it supports the same goals I’ve always had, safety, confidence, and responsible firearm ownership. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Combined with ACE and Meta, it’s not about replacing traditional training — it’s about giving students every possible advantage to learn the right way, at the right pace, in the right environment. Gregg Kielma

Instructor Rick S and Student Training in My Pasture: A Look at Your Outdoor Range: Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma Set in the quiet openness of a Florida farm pasture, your outdoor shooting range offers something that’s getting harder to find these days — a private, peaceful, and purpose-built space where students can learn without pressure or distraction. The setting isn’t just scenic, cows and all, it plays a real role in the quality of training we deliver at Tactical K Training and Firearms. A Natural, Comfortable Environment The wide-open pasture creates a calm backdrop for learning. Fresh air, open sky, and the natural spacing of the land help students feel at ease, especially those who may be nervous or new to firearms. The rural setting also keeps noise low and distractions minimal, allowing shooters to focus on fundamentals and safety. Designed for Practical, Real World Training My range layout takes advantage of the pasture’s natural contours, giving you safe shooting lanes, solid backstops, and plenty of room for controlled drills. Whether teaching basic marksmanship, firearm handling, or scenario based skills, the space supports the kind of practical, real world training that responsible gun owners appreciate. Safety as the Foundation Even in a relaxed farm setting, my range maintains the same disciplined safety standards we are known for. Clear boundaries, structured instruction, and your emphasis on avoidance, escape, and defense ensure that every student understands not just how to shoot, but how to do so responsibly. A Personal, One on One Experience Unlike crowded public ranges, my pasture range offers privacy and personal attention. Students can ask questions freely, take their time, and build confidence at a pace that fits them. The farm setting reinforces that sense of comfort — it feels like learning with a trusted instructor like Gregg Kielma or Rick S, not performing in front of strangers. More Than a Range — A Place to Grow My outdoor pasture range isn’t just a place to fire rounds. It’s a place where people gain skills, confidence, and a deeper respect for safe firearm ownership. The combination of professional instruction and a peaceful rural setting creates an experience that sticks with students long after they leave. Gregg Kielma

“The Empty Lane” — A Short Thought From My Perspective Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms 1/24/2026 I unlocked the range just after sunrise today, Saturday January 24th 7:15 AM got it cleaned up and started to set up the lanes. The Florida air still cool enough to feel great. Mornings like that always remind me why I started Tactical K Training and Firearms in the first place—quiet, focused, full of potential. But as I walked past the shooting lanes, I noticed the same thing I’d been seeing for years. Most of them were empty at 10AM when I opened. People sign up, no show, or called to cancel, for so many reasons the list goes on and on. People buy firearms with the best intentions. They tell themselves they’ll train, they’ll practice, they’ll stay sharp. But life has a way of getting loud, and training is one of the first things that slips into the background. I remember a student Sam. Good guy, responsible, eager. After his first class he promised he’d be back every month. “I want to be confident,” he said. “I want to protect my family.” Months passed. No Sam. When he finally returned, he looked frustrated. “Gregg, I don’t know what happened. I meant to practice. I really did.” I hear that more than anything else. Just no time in his busy schedule. The reasons are as long as route 66 People don’t fail to train because they’re lazy. They fail because training requires commitment. It forces you to confront what you don’t know, what you can’t do yet, and what you’re afraid you might get wrong. It’s easier to believe that owning a firearm is enough. It’s easier to assume you’ll rise to the occasion when the moment comes. But the truth—the one most folks avoid—is that you don’t rise to the occasion. You fall to your level of training. As I stood there in waiting at one of the lanes, I thought about how many people carry a tool they’ve never truly learned to use. Not out of neglect, but out of fear, pride, or the belief that “I’ll get to it eventually.” That’s why I keep showing up. That’s why I keep unlocking the range at sunrise. BECAUSE I CARE. For Sam one day, someone like him will walk back in, ready to start again. And when they do, I’ll be there to remind them: Training isn’t about perfection. It’s about responsibility. And all the lanes will be waiting. Gregg Kielma

Why Monitoring Your Blood Pressure Matters By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01/20/2026 As an ERT Captain and certified instructor, I provide blood pressure checks, if wanted, during all my classes I offer. This has helped us detect clients with potentially serious heart issues they were unaware of. While not a physician, I can identify critical warning signs requiring further attention. High blood pressure is often called the “silent threat” for a reason—it rarely shows symptoms, yet it can quietly damage your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain over time. Regular monitoring is one of the simplest and most effective steps people can take to protect their long-term health. Checking your blood pressure at home gives you real time insight into how your body responds to daily stress, diet, sleep, and activity. It helps you catch changes early, long before they turn into serious medical problems. For many people, home monitoring also provides more accurate readings than occasional doctor visits, since it removes the stress and pressure of the clinical environment. Consistent tracking empowers you to make informed decisions about your lifestyle and health. It allows you to share accurate data with your healthcare provider, helping them tailor treatment, adjust medications, or recommend preventive steps. In short, monitoring your blood pressure isn’t just a habit—it’s a form of self-protection and early detection that can truly save lives. Thank you for taking the time to read this and help save your life or others. If you have any questions, please let know. Gregg Kielma

Why Some Virginia Lawmakers Push for Strict Gun Laws and Bans By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01-19-2026 Debates over firearm legislation in Virginia have intensified in recent years, with several lawmakers proposing sweeping restrictions on gun ownership, magazine capacity, and permitting requirements. While these proposals are controversial and often opposed by responsible gun owners, it’s important to understand the motivations driving them. Knowing the “why” behind these efforts helps gun owners stay informed, engaged, and prepared to advocate for their rights. 1. Rising Concerns About Public Safety and Gun Violence Many Virginia legislators argue that stricter gun laws are necessary to address concerns about public safety. Bills such as SB1109, introduced in 2025, aim to tighten handgun purchase regulations and expand background checks, reflecting a belief that limiting access will reduce misuse. Supporters claim these measures are intended to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who may pose a risk. 2. A Push for More Comprehensive Vetting Several proposals focus on expanding the vetting process for firearm permits. These include: • Mandatory fingerprinting • More extensive background checks • Reviews of criminal history and mental health records These measures are framed as efforts to ensure only “qualified” individuals can obtain permits. While many responsible gun owners already exceed these standards through training and safe practices, lawmakers argue that uniform statewide requirements are necessary. 3. Influence of Gun Control Advocacy Groups Organizations that support firearm restrictions have become increasingly active in Virginia. Groups promoting “evidence based” gun violence prevention policies advocate for licensing systems, storage mandates, and magazine bans as ways to reduce crime and accidental shootings. Their messaging often influences legislative priorities, especially in districts where voters favor tighter regulations. 4. Political Shifts in Key Regions Urban and suburban areas of Virginia — particularly Northern Virginia — have grown rapidly and tend to elect representatives who support stricter gun laws. These lawmakers often cite constituent pressure to pass bans on certain firearms or accessories, such as the proposed magazine ban highlighted in recent legislative discussions. 5. A Belief That Restrictions Will Reduce Crime Some legislators believe that limiting access to certain firearms or magazines will reduce violent crime. For example, proposals to raise penalties for violent offenders using firearms are framed as crime reduction strategies. While critics argue that these laws target lawful gun owners instead of criminals, supporters maintain that restrictions are part of a broader public safety strategy. Kielma’s Parting Shot Virginia’s push for strict gun laws is driven by a combination of political pressure, advocacy influence, public safety concerns, and shifting demographics. Whether or not these laws are effective is a separate debate — but understanding the motivations behind them helps responsible gun owners stay informed and engaged. Gregg Kielma

Outside The Waste Band Holster. Open Carry Understanding Brandishing or Improperly Exposing a Firearm By Gregg Kielma_ Tactical K Training and Firearms 01/19/2026 I always field questions during training classes about brandishing a firearm in public, what are the consequences and how will it impact my life, my career or my family’s life? Let’s take a LOOK: My Thoughts Brandishing — or improperly exposing a firearm — is one of the most misunderstood areas of firearms law. Many gun owners assume that if they don’t point a gun at someone, they’re safe from legal trouble. The law takes a much broader view. Knowing what qualifies as brandishing is essential for every responsible gun owner. What “Brandishing” Actually Means Across most jurisdictions, brandishing refers to displaying a firearm in a threatening, intimidating, or aggressive manner. Importantly, the firearm does not need to be pointed at anyone for the act to be considered brandishing. According to legal sources: Even unintentional exposure can lead to accusations if someone feels threatened. • Brandishing is the act of displaying a firearm “to intimidate, threaten, or cause fear in another person”. • It includes “displaying, waving, or showing a weapon in a manner that is threatening or intended to intimidate”. • The key elements often include: o Another person is present o The display is aggressive or alarming o The intent (or perceived intent) is to cause fear What Brandishing Is Not: Context matters — and perception matters even more. If a reasonable person would feel threatened, the situation can escalate quickly. • Simply carrying a firearm in a lawful manner • Printing or accidental brief exposure while concealed carrying • Displaying a firearm in a non-threatening context (e.g., holstering at a range, cleaning at home) Potential Legal Consequences Brandishing is treated as a serious offense because of its potential to escalate into violence, even when no shot is fired. Depending on the state and circumstances, consequences may include: Criminal Charges • Misdemeanor or felony charges • Arrest and potential jail time • Heavy fines Loss of Firearm Rights • Suspension or revocation of concealed carry permits • Possible long-term loss of firearm ownership rights Civil Liability • Lawsuits from individuals who felt threatened • Financial damages for emotional distress or other claims Long-Term Impact • Criminal record • Loss of employment opportunities • Damage to reputation and credibility Why This Matters for Responsible Gun Owners I teach in my classes responsible firearm ownership and marksmanship, it matters. It’s about judgment, restraint, and understanding the law. Brandishing charges often arise from emotional reactions, poor decision-making, or misunderstandings that could have been avoided with proper training. A responsible gun owner should always: • Keep the firearm concealed unless legally justified to draw • Avoid escalating confrontations • Understand state-specific laws • Prioritize de-escalation, avoid, escape and as a last resort defend. Be the reasonable person. Always have a plan. Kielma’ Parting Shot Brandishing or improperly exposing a firearm is a serious legal matter with consequences that can follow a person for life. Education, awareness, and disciplined behavior are the best tools to prevent these situations. When gun owners understand the law and act responsibly, they protect not only themselves but the entire firearms community. Gregg Kielma

Wanda Kielma, Office Boss: A Life Defined by Strength, Service, and Steadfast Values Wanda Kielma i s a woman whose life reflects resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to the people around her. Known for her unwavering work ethic and her ability to bring calm, order, and compassion into any environment, Wanda has earned the respect of colleagues, friends, and family alike. Raised with strong values and a clear sense of responsibility, Wanda built her reputation through decades of consistent service and leadership. Whether managing complex tasks, supporting others through challenges, or stepping into roles that demanded reliability and integrity, she has always been the person people could count on. Wanda’s professional life is marked by diligence and loyalty. She approaches every responsibility with a level of care that sets her apart—never cutting corners, never compromising her standards, and always putting people first. Her ability to balance firmness with kindness has made her a trusted presence in every setting she enters. Beyond her work, Wanda is the heart of her family . She is the steady voice of reason, the quiet force that keeps things moving forward, and the person who shows up—every time, without fail. Her strength is not loud or boastful; it’s the kind that’s built through years of perseverance, sacrifice, and love. Those who know Wanda describe her as grounded, dependable, and deeply principled. She leads not through titles or recognition, but through example. Her life is a reminder that true character is revealed in the everyday choices we make and the way we treat the people around us. In a world that often celebrates the flashy and the temporary, Wanda Kielma stands out for all the right reasons: her integrity, her humility, and her unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. Her legacy is one of quiet strength—and the countless lives she has touched along the way. Our God is Great Wanda Amen….Love you for everything you have done for the past 40 plus years....

Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms Who I Am and Why I Teach: A Personal Message from me, Gregg Kielma Owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms to You, My Family, Friends, Clients and Students Running Tactical K Training isn’t just a business for me — it’s a responsibility I take seriously. Every day, I meet people who want to become safer, more capable, and more confident in their own lives. My job is to give them the tools, the knowledge, and the mindset to do exactly that. I’ve spent years working with firearms, optics, equipment, and real-world defensive concepts. Over time, I’ve learned that skill alone isn’t enough. What matters most is judgment — knowing when to avoid, when to de-escalate, when to escape, and only as a last resort, how to defend yourself or your family. That philosophy guides everything I teach. My approach is simple: clear instruction, real world context, and respect for the responsibility that comes with firearm ownership. I don’t teach fantasy scenarios or “tactical cosplay.” I teach practical, lawful, life preserving skills that ordinary people can use under stress. Whether I’m helping someone mount their first optic, refine their dry fire routine, or understand Florida’s self-defense laws, my goal is always the same — empower them to make smart, safe decisions. I believe in building a community of responsible gun owners who value safety, education, and continuous improvement. That’s why I write articles, update my website, and stay engaged with students long after their class ends. Training isn’t a onetime event. It’s a mindset. If you train with me, you’ll get honesty, professionalism, and instruction tailored to your experience level. You’ll also get someone who genuinely cares about your growth and your safety. I’m proud of the work we do here, and I’m grateful for every student who trusts me to guide them. Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep learning. — Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training & Firearms

Tactical K Training and Firearms: Trust and Integrity What a Responsible FFL Dealer Looks Like: A Reflection on me Gregg Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms and How I Run My Business Gregg Kielma 01/18/2026 As someone who works closely with firearm owners, students, and members of our community, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand what true responsibility in the firearms industry looks like. If you want an example of what a responsible Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer should be, you don’t have to look any further than Tactical K Training and Firearms and my staff. I don’t just hold an FFL — I embody the professionalism, integrity, and commitment to safety that the license represents. My Relentless Commitment to the Law One of the defining traits of a responsible FFL dealer is unwavering respect for federal, state, and local regulations. I approach compliance with the same seriousness I bring to every aspect of my work. We Always Ensure: • Every background check is completed thoroughly • Every form is accurate and properly maintained • Every ATF requirement is followed to the letter For myself, this isn’t about paperwork — it’s about protecting the community and upholding the trust placed in me as a licensed dealer. A Teacher at Heart: I’m a USCCA Firearms Instructor I understand that responsible firearm ownership begins with education. I don’t simply transfer firearms; I guide people through the process with patience, clarity, and genuine care. My clients understand: • Safe handling and storage • Legal responsibilities • Appropriate firearm selection • The importance of ongoing training I believe this approach ensures that every customer walks away not just with a firearm, but with the knowledge and confidence to own it responsibly. A Guardian of Community Safety As a responsible FFL dealer, I have to be very vigilant — and I take that responsibility seriously. I know the warning signs of straw purchases, suspicious behavior, and questionable intent. I’m not afraid to slow down, ask questions, or refuse a sale when something doesn’t feel right. That kind of integrity protects everyone. Professionalism You Can Trust As the owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms, we set a high standard in every part of our work. We value: • Honesty • Transparency • Respect • Secure handling and storage • Ethical business practices This professionalism builds trust — not just with clients, friends or family, but with the broader community that relies on responsible dealers to uphold the highest standards. A Positive Force in the Firearms Community When an FFL dealer operates with integrity, it strengthens the entire firearms ecosystem. My work supports lawful ownership, promotes education, and reinforces the culture of responsibility that keeps our communities safe. I’d like people to remember that the firearms industry is at its best when it is grounded in ethics, safety, and service. Gregg Kielma












