Nogales Man Indicted for Trafficking in Firearms 

On February 21, 2024, a federal grand jury indicted Jose Rene Murrieta, 30, of Nogales, on one count of Smuggling Goods from the United States, Felony Receipt of a Firearm, and Conspiracy to Smuggle Firearms Out of the United States to Promote a Felony.

The complaint alleges that on January 23, 2024, Murrieta attempted to exit the United States and enter the Republic of Mexico through the DeConcini Port of Entry. After a search of Murrieta’s vehicle, United States Customs and Border Protection Officers located multiple rifles, pistols, and magazines. During an interview, Murietta admitted he was smuggling the items to Mexico in exchange for money.

Smuggling Goods from the United States carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Felony Receipt of a Firearm and Conspiracy to Smuggle Firearms Out of the United States to Promote a Felony carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being prosecuted under criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022.  The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.

Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Nathaniel Walters, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.