McALLEN, Texas – A 26-year-old man has entered a guilty plea for possessing destructive devices and utilizing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

McALLEN, Texas – A 26-year-old man has entered a guilty plea for possessing destructive devices and utilizing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

On August 1, Jamez Aaron Sandoval bought two grenade-style destructive devices, which led to his arrest. Authorities conducted a search of his residence and discovered cocaine, marijuana, drug dealing paraphernalia, as well as a firearm.

Further investigation revealed that Sandoval used the firearm for protection during the commission of drug trafficking activities. Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane accepted the plea and set sentencing for December 3.

At that time, Sandoval faces up to 10 years in federal prison to be immediately followed by a minimum of five additional years and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

Sandoval has been and will remain in custody pending his sentencing.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Texas Department of Public Safety, and Alamo Police Department conducted the joint investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Cahal P. McColgan is prosecuting the case as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program.

The updated PSN approach is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results of our efforts.

The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.

Defendant: Jamez Aaron Sandoval

Criminal Charges: Possessing destructive devices and utilizing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity

City and State: McAllen, Texas

Exact Date: August 1, 2024 (arrest date)

Sentence or Outcome: Up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine

Dollar Amounts: $250,000 (maximum fine)

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