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Violence on the Streets: Mexican National Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of Firearms
Jacksonville, FL – In a shocking turn of events, Jose Cruz Cienega-Gaona, a 41-year-old Mexican national, was sentenced to 1 year and 1 day in federal prison for possessing a firearm while unlawfully in the United States.
This case began in May 2024, when agents with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection started an investigation into Cienega-Gaona. Through their investigation, agents determined that Cienega-Gaona is a native and citizen of Mexico. It was revealed that he had been removed from the United States in 2006 and 2019 after it was determined he was illegally in the country.
On July 9, 2024, agents spoke with Cienega-Gaona at a gas station near his home and arrested him for being illegally in the United States. During the interview, agents learned that he had guns in his home. A search warrant was executed at Cienega-Gaona’s home, where agents found four guns and ammunition.
Because Cienega-Gaona was in the United States illegally, he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities.
This case was investigated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.
As part of the sentencing, U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger emphasized the importance of upholding federal laws and protecting communities from violence. Cienega-Gaona’s case serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaking the law.
Mandatory Facts: Defendant: Jose Cruz Cienega-Gaona, Charges: Unlawful possession of firearms, City and State: Jacksonville, Florida, Date: November 2024 (sentencing), Sentence: 1 year and 1 day in federal prison.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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