Joaquin Archuleta, 41, of Santa Fe, N.M., has pleaded guilty to violating federal firearms laws by unlawfully possessing a firearm. The crime occurred on April 7, 2016 in Santa Fe County, N.M. Archuleta was arrested on November 9, 2016, and later indicted on December 7, 2016 for the same charge.
According to the indictment, Archuleta was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to prior felony convictions, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, possession of a controlled substance, and attempt to traffic a controlled substance.
During his guilty plea, Archuleta admitted to throwing a handgun into a backyard while fleeing from police on April 7, 2016. He also acknowledged that he knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to his prior convictions.
Archuleta remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled. He is facing a recommended sentence of 63 months of imprisonment followed by a period of supervised release to be determined by the court.
The case was investigated by the Albuquerque office of the DEA and the Santa Fe Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy S. Vasquez is prosecuting the case.
As a convicted felon, Archuleta is barred from possessing firearms or ammunition, which makes his actions a serious crime. This case serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaking federal firearms laws.
Archuleta’s guilty plea and the subsequent sentence will be determined by the court in the coming months. Stay tuned for further updates on this case.
Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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