Zachary Ray Gonzales, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, New Mexico 2024

HOBBS, NM – Zachary Ray Gonzales, 28, is headed to federal prison for 63 months after admitting to illegally possessing a firearm. The sentencing comes on top of a 15-year state sentence, meaning Gonzales will spend over two decades behind bars for a constellation of violent crimes.

The case began on March 19, 2022, when Lea County Sheriff’s deputies pulled Gonzales over during a traffic stop. Deputies were executing an arrest warrant for first-degree murder – a charge that was later reduced. A search of the vehicle Gonzales was driving turned up a handgun on the rear passenger side floorboard.

Gonzales wasn’t supposed to have it. Court records show he was already a convicted felon, making possession of a firearm a federal offense. The gun, discovered during a warrant-authorized search, sealed his fate on the federal level. He subsequently pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm on July 10, 2023.

But the federal charge wasn’t the only trouble for Gonzales. He also entered guilty pleas to state charges of voluntary manslaughter, armed robbery, and conspiracy to commit armed robbery. The 15-year state sentence will run consecutively to the 63-month federal sentence, effectively extending his time behind bars well past 2040.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation, with crucial assistance from the Lea County Sheriff’s Office. The ATF’s Dallas Field Division handled the case, demonstrating a continued focus on curbing illegal gun activity in the region. Assistant United States Attorney Ry Ellison prosecuted the case.

Upon his eventual release, Gonzales will be subject to three years of supervised release. This case underscores the severe consequences facing individuals caught illegally possessing firearms, especially those with prior felony convictions. The combined state and federal penalties send a clear message: violent criminals will face lengthy prison terms.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Weapons

Raymere Broomer, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Delaware 2022

Apr 9, 2026

Weapons

Terrance Pickett, Violating Federal Gun Control Act, Louisiana 2023

Apr 9, 2026

Weapons

Andrew Bryant, Weapon Possession, Virginia 2021

Jun 30, 2021

Weapons

Zebulon Nester, Illegal Firearms Possession, Michigan 2023

Apr 9, 2026