Fugitive Marrero Gets 6 Years for Puerto Rico Gun Stash

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Josué Marrero is heading to federal prison for six years after a cache of firearms was discovered when authorities finally caught up with him in Puerto Rico. Marrero, a fugitive from Delaware, received a 72-month sentence from United States District Court Judge Francisco A. Besosa, a penalty significantly harsher than sentencing guidelines suggested.

The case began with an arrest warrant issued in Delaware for Controlled Substances violations. Rather than face the music, Marrero fled to the island, attempting to disappear in a house located in the municipality of Toa Alta. But the long arm of the law, spearheaded by the FBI and bolstered by the Puerto Rico Police Department, tracked him down.

When officers executed the warrant, they didn’t find a man simply hiding. They found a man armed to the teeth. Marrero was in possession of two loaded handguns: a .40 caliber Glock pistol with nine rounds in the magazine and an extra magazine containing another nine rounds, plus a 9MM Smith & Wesson pistol loaded with sixteen rounds and an additional fifteen-round magazine. The search also turned up a box containing 41 more .40 caliber rounds.

The judge didn’t hold back. The 72-month sentence exceeded the upper end of the applicable guideline range by a full 26 months, signaling the court’s disapproval of Marrero’s attempt to evade justice and his decision to arm himself while on the run. It’s a clear message: fleeing and packing heat will bring a hefty price.

Assistant United States Attorney Max Pérez-Bouret prosecuted the case, building a solid case against Marrero. After serving his sentence, Marrero will face another three years of supervised release, a period where his movements will be closely monitored. This isn’t just about the guns; it’s about a fugitive trying to rebuild a life on the run while posing a potential threat.

The FBI investigation, with crucial support from the Puerto Rico Police Department, demonstrates the continued commitment of federal agencies to track down fugitives and enforce firearms laws, even across state lines and into U.S. territories. This case serves as a reminder that there’s nowhere to hide from federal authorities.