Junior Alexander Moncada-Vargas, Gun Control Act Violations, Louisiana 2023

NEW ORLEANS – In a shocking turn of events, Junior Alexander Moncada-Vargas, a 34-year-old Honduran citizen, has been charged with violating the Federal Gun Control Act in Louisiana.

According to a federal indictment, Moncada-Vargas was charged on September 29, 2023, with four counts of violating the Federal Gun Control Act. The charges include possession and transfer of a machinegun, being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of firearms and ammunition while being an illegal alien.

The indictment alleges that on July 21, 2023, Moncada-Vargas knowingly possessed and transferred a machinegun, a Glock Model 22 Gen 5, .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun, with a Glock auto-sear. Additionally, on August 2, 2023, and September 18, 2023, Moncada-Vargas knowingly possessed firearms and ammunition, including a Kalashnikov USA Model KR103, a Norinco Model SKS, and approximately 22 rounds of ammunition.

If convicted, Moncada-Vargas faces up to 10 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release for Count One. For each of the charges described in Counts Two through Four, he faces up to 15 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Moncada-Vargas also faces a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count.

U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities. The case was investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (A.T.F.) and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the General Crimes Unit.

Moncada-Vargas, a Honduran citizen, is currently facing serious charges and potential penalties. The outcome of this case will be closely watched by the community and law enforcement agencies.

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