Richard Isaac Quezada, Gun Possession, NM 2023

ALBUQUERQUE – A grim reminder of the harsh penalties for illegal firearm possession came yesterday as 34-year-old Richard Isaac Quezada, a resident of Las Cruces, N.M., was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison. The sentence was handed down by the Honorable Judge for violating federal firearms laws.

Quezada’s criminal odyssey began in March 2016 when he was arrested for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Authorities claim that Quezada discharged a firearm, striking a vehicle during his arrest. A loaded firearm and ammunition were recovered on him at the time of his apprehension.

In what seemed like a foregone conclusion, Quezada entered a guilty plea on July 20, 2016, to a felony information charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. He confessed that he possessed a loaded handgun and ammunition, despite being prohibited from having firearms or ammunition due to his prior conviction for importing marijuana.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Las Cruces office and the Las Cruces Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah M. Davenport prosecuted the case with unwavering determination.

Quezada will be on supervised release for three years following his prison sentence, adding a layer of community protection after he completes his term behind bars. As the justice system once again demonstrated its resolve to crack down on illegal firearms, the sentencing of Quezada serves as a stark warning to those who flout federal firearms laws.