Mario Gonzalez Pleads Guilty to Possessing Ammunition as a Felon, Manteca CA, 2022

A Manteca man has pleaded guilty to possessing ammunition after being convicted of a felony crime, according to a statement released by the U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert.

Mario Gonzalez, 40, was arrested in December 2019 after Manteca Police Department officers searched his truck. During the search, officers found a loaded firearm and 48 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition.

Gonzalez has several prior felony convictions, including three prior domestic violence felonies, which prohibit him from possessing firearms or ammunition.

The investigation into Gonzalez’s case was a collaborative effort between the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, the Manteca Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron D. Pennekamp and Emily G. Sauvageau are prosecuting the case.

Gonzalez is scheduled to be sentenced on March 20, 2023, by U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb. He faces a minimum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

This case is part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, which aims to reduce violent crime.

Gonzalez’s actions demonstrate the importance of the PSN Program and the need for strict enforcement of laws related to firearms and ammunition.

His sentencing will serve as a reminder of the consequences of breaking these laws.

The case against Gonzalez serves as a warning to those who would disregard the law and put others at risk.

The U.S. Attorney’s office will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who commit crimes are held accountable for their actions.