NEW ORLEANS, LA – Juan Santos Perez-Zavala, a 24-year-old national of Mexico, is facing federal charges after allegedly being found with a handgun while illegally present in the United States. The indictment, handed down yesterday, accuses Zavala of violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A) – illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on April 16, 2019, within the Eastern District of Louisiana. Investigators allege Zavala was found to be an illegal alien in possession of a KelTec model P11 9 millimeter pistol. Crucially, authorities state Zavala has never been deported, raising questions about how he remained within U.S. borders.
United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced the indictment, but was quick to emphasize the standard legal caution: this is merely an accusation. “An indictment is not a finding of guilt,” Strasser stated. “The government has the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.” The wheels of justice turn slowly, but they are turning.
If convicted on the single charge, Zavala faces a stiff penalty. The maximum sentence includes up to 10 years of imprisonment, a hefty fine of $250,000, and a three-year term of supervised release. This isn’t a slap on the wrist; it’s a serious federal felony with potentially life-altering consequences.
The investigation was spearheaded by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, a frequent partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in these types of cases. Strasser publicly praised ICE’s work, acknowledging the agency’s role in uncovering the alleged crime. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. has been assigned to prosecute the case.
Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves through the federal court system. The question remains: how did Zavala acquire the firearm, and what were his intentions? This case highlights the ongoing challenges of border security and illegal firearms trafficking, issues that continue to plague the nation. We’ll be here to report the unvarnished truth, no matter how ugly it gets.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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