Richard Wagner, Felon with Firearm, Sheridan WY, 2024

SHERIDAN, WY – Richard Wagner, 25, of Sheridan, Wyoming, is headed to federal prison after receiving a 24-month sentence for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl handed down the sentence Wednesday, February 14, 2024. The case underscores the relentless pursuit of those who illegally possess weapons, especially those with prior criminal records.

The trouble began March 13, 2023, when a Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP) trooper pulled Wagner over for a traffic violation. As the trooper approached the vehicle, they observed Wagner attempting to hide something in the backseat. A subsequent search revealed a Glock pistol and 9.1 grams of cocaine. Wagner, already a convicted felon, knew he was prohibited from owning a firearm. The discovery triggered a joint investigation by the WHP and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Wagner ultimately pled guilty to the charge on November 20, 2023, acknowledging his violation of federal law. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan C. Coppom led the prosecution, successfully arguing for a significant prison term. The sentence serves as a warning to others who might attempt to circumvent gun laws, particularly those with a criminal past.

In a separate case, Xander Noah Miller, 20, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, received two years of supervised probation on February 12 for assault by striking, beating, or wounding. The incident occurred in Yellowstone National Park, where Miller and the victim were seasonal employees. Park Rangers responded to a domestic violence disturbance at their employee housing and Miller admitted to fighting with the victim. Senior U.S. District Court Nancy D. Freudenthal imposed the probation sentence. The case was investigated by the National Park Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook.

Also this week, Sergio Bucio-Cuellar, 57, of Mexico City, Mexico, was sentenced to time served, plus up to 10 days to facilitate deportation, for illegally re-entering the United States after being previously deported. Arrested December 7, 2023, by the Cheyenne Police Department on charges of aggravated assault and battery with a weapon, and strangulation of a household member, Bucio-Cuellar claimed U.S. citizenship. However, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed his previous deportation and illegal status. State charges were dropped in favor of federal prosecution. Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal presided over the sentencing, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook handling the case.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming handles a wide range of federal cases, from environmental crimes to child exploitation and gun violence. Through initiatives like Project Safe Childhood and Project Safe Neighborhoods, the office aims to improve community safety. The office represents the federal government in all litigation within Wyoming, including criminal prosecutions, civil lawsuits, and debt collection.

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