A young driver from Laredo, Texas, has been indicted on federal charges related to the possession of a machinegun. U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei announced that 19-year-old Justin Landen Ruiz is facing these charges following an alleged road rage incident.
Ruiz was initially charged by criminal complaint and is expected to make an appearance in Laredo federal court before a U.S. magistrate judge soon.
The charges stem from an incident on February 6, where authorities responded to reports of road rage on the northbound lane of Bob Bullock near Lake Casa Blanca International State Park. Ruiz, who was driving a black Jeep, allegedly displayed a firearm during this encounter.
According to the charges, law enforcement officers conducted a search after pulling over Ruiz's vehicle. They reportedly found two firearms and three loaded magazines in the center console. One of the firearms was identified as a tan Glock 19x, 9mm pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device that allows it to function as fully automatic.
If convicted, Ruiz could face up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
The investigation was carried out by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Laredo Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew P. Hakala-Finch.
It should be noted that an indictment is merely an accusation and not evidence of guilt. A defendant remains innocent until proven guilty through due process of law.