United States Attorney Duane A. Evans has announced the indictment of Frander Ulises Espinoza-Rugama, a 27-year-old native of Nicaragua, on charges related to firearm possession. The indictment was issued on December 5, 2024, accusing Espinoza-Rugama of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, violating Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(5)(A) and 924(a)(8).
Court documents reveal that Espinoza-Rugama was found with a Smith & Wesson Model SW9VE nine-millimeter handgun on or about June 30, 2024. He was apprehended by officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations for breaching immigration laws.
If convicted, Espinoza-Rugama could face up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
U.S. Attorney Evans emphasized that an indictment is merely an accusation and the defendant's guilt must be established beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. The Department launched an enhanced violent crime reduction strategy on May 26, 2021, focusing on fostering trust within communities, supporting violence prevention organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.
U.S. Attorney Evans commended the efforts of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis from the General Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution.