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Ramon Oscar Morales-Valencia, a 47-year-old Mexican national, was busted in Marion County, Oregon, on April 19, 2025, for driving an SUV with a Ruger 9mm pistol in his waistband and methamphetamine in the vehicle. Morales-Valencia, who was formally removed from the US in 2010, had reentered the country illegally. The traffic stop by Marion County Sheriff’s Deputies led to the discovery of the firearm and methamphetamine, sparking a federal investigation.
Morales-Valencia pleaded guilty in state court to possession of methamphetamine and was sentenced to 29 months. However, his troubles didn’t end there. A federal grand jury in Portland indicted him on September 16, 2025, for alien in possession of a firearm and illegal reentry.
The US Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon announced that Morales-Valencia was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison and 3 years’ supervised release. His sentence will run concurrent with his recent Marion County drug possession conviction. US Attorney Scott E. Bradford emphasized that combatting gun violence is a priority, and his office will pursue those who think they are above the law.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case with assistance from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. ATF Seattle Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais warned that the unlawful possession of firearms and narcotics by prohibited individuals poses a serious threat to community safety, and the ATF will continue to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who endanger citizens.
