A resident of Laredo, Texas, has pleaded guilty to charges related to the illegal acquisition of firearms. Jesus Guadalupe Covarrubias, 39, admitted his involvement in a scheme to straw purchase multiple rifles, as announced by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
The investigation revealed that between February and July 2021, Covarrubias assisted in the illegal purchasing of several rifles. In July 2021, authorities discovered approximately 10 AK-style and 20 AR-style rifles stolen from a ranch owned by Covarrubias. As a convicted felon, federal law prohibits him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Further investigations led law enforcement to Covarrubias's residence in Laredo. Officers observed him and others loading items into vehicles before moving to another location where they saw three rifles being transferred from a truck into a house. Covarrubias and his associates were subsequently taken into custody.
Covarrubias acknowledged knowing he was barred from possessing firearms due to his status as a convicted felon. He admitted sending others to purchase firearms on his behalf as part of his guilty plea.
After being arrested in August 2021 and released on bond, Covarrubias fled to Mexico but was eventually apprehended and returned to U.S. authorities on February 21.
"This case is an important reminder to criminals that they may run from justice, but they can’t hide," said Ganjei. "The Southern District of Texas is appreciative of the efforts of all those, both in the United States and in Mexico, that made Mr. Corvarrubias’ extradition happen so he could face justice."
Michael Weddel, Special Agent in Charge at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), emphasized the dangers posed by straw purchasing: "Straw purchasing is not only a direct violation of the law but it also endangers our communities by enabling prohibited incidentals to gain access to firearms." He added that such actions jeopardize public safety and undermine trust in the justice system.
U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña will impose sentencing at a later date when Covarrubias could face up to 10 years in federal prison along with a potential $250,000 fine. Until then, he will remain in custody.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from local agencies including the Webb County Sheriff’s Office and Laredo Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs collaborated with Mexican law enforcement for Covarrubias's arrest and extradition while the U.S. Marshals Service managed his removal back to Texas for prosecution led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day.