Arthur Quintana, Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, New Mexico 2023

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – Arthur Quintana, 45, is headed to federal prison for nearly eight years after admitting to illegally possessing firearms. Quintana was sentenced to 86 months – 7 years and 2 months – on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, after pleading guilty in February to being a felon in possession of both a firearm and ammunition. The case highlights the ongoing effort to keep guns out of the hands of those legally prohibited from owning them.

The bust unfolded on June 6, 2021, when a Bernalillo County property owner discovered Quintana and others unlawfully on their land. As the owner dialed 911, Quintana made a run for it in a Ford Explorer. Deputies with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office quickly intercepted the vehicle, initiating a traffic stop as Quintana attempted to leave the area. Quintana, shockingly, told the deputies he was carrying two firearms.

A subsequent search of the Explorer revealed the truth of Quintana’s claim: two loaded handguns were tucked away under the front passenger seat. The discovery immediately flagged Quintana as a prohibited possessor. He later admitted, as part of his plea agreement, that he was well aware of his status as a convicted felon and that possessing firearms or ammunition was illegal for him. This wasn’t a case of ignorance, but a conscious disregard for the law.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, leading the charge for the District of New Mexico, announced the sentencing. The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Assistant United States Attorney Alexander F. Flores spearheaded the prosecution, bringing the case to a firm conclusion.

Quintana’s prison sentence isn’t the end of his federal supervision. Upon his release, he will be subject to three years of supervised release, meaning his activities will be monitored by federal authorities. This added layer of oversight aims to prevent recidivism and ensure public safety. The case serves as a stark warning: those with prior convictions who illegally possess firearms will face serious consequences.

The Grimy Times will continue to follow federal cases impacting New Mexico communities. This conviction, while one case among many, demonstrates the commitment of federal agencies to reducing gun violence and holding offenders accountable. Details regarding Quintana’s specific prior conviction were not immediately available.

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