Michael Paul Astorga, Felony Firearms Sales, New Mexico 2012

Felony Firearms Salesman Sentenced to 41 Months

ALBUQUERQUE – A shocking case of gun crimes has come to an end with Michael Paul Astorga, 30, of Las Cruces, being sentenced to 41 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for violating federal firearms laws.

Astorga, a convicted felon, was arrested on November 20, 2014, for being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition on August 31, 2012, in Doña Ana County, N.M. At the time, he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his previous conviction for robbery.

Astorga pled guilty to the indictment on February 26, 2015, and admitted that on August 31, 2012, he sold two firearms and ammunition to an undercover law enforcement agent and a person working with law enforcement. He also acknowledged that as a convicted felon, he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

The investigation into Astorga’s crimes was conducted by the Las Cruces office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Y. Armijo of the U.S. Attorney’s Las Cruces Branch Office prosecuted the case.

According to the evidence presented in court, Astorga knowingly and willfully violated federal law by possessing and selling firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. His actions put the community at risk and demonstrate a blatant disregard for the law.

Astorga’s sentence serves as a reminder that those who commit gun crimes will be held accountable for their actions. The community can rest a little easier knowing that this individual will be behind bars for the next 41 months.

The case is a stark reminder of the importance of responsible gun ownership and the consequences of violating federal firearms laws.

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