A Houston man has been found guilty by a federal jury for making false statements in the purchase of firearms intended for export to Mexico. U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei announced the conviction of 49-year-old John Castellano, who was charged with purchasing firearms while knowing they were to be routed to Mexico.
The trial, which lasted three days, concluded with the jury reaching a verdict in less than 20 minutes. Castellano was accused of falsely stating to a federal firearms licensed dealer on December 16, 2019, that he was acquiring two Barrett .50 caliber rifles for personal use. Each rifle valued at approximately $8,000, was actually meant for others and were destined for Mexico.
During the trial, evidence was presented showing that Castellano bought the rifles using about $17,000 in cash obtained from Jacinto Zuniga. Testimonies revealed that Castellano had collected the firearms with a friend, who was also a convicted felon, from a federal firearms licensed dealer.
Furthermore, the jury was informed that Castellano attempted to secure more Barrett .50 caliber rifles before the authorities intervened. Experts explained the legal requirements for exporting firearms to Mexico, and the jury witnessed the straw-purchased rifles.
Castellano, opting to testify, contended that incriminating text messages between him and a co-defendant were deceptive fabrications. However, the jury did not accept these claims and pronounced him guilty.
U.S. District Judge Ewing Werlein oversaw the trial and scheduled sentencing for July 25. Castellano is facing a potential sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison along with a maximum fine of $250,000. He is permitted to remain on bond until the hearing.
Jacinto Zuniga, 44, of Houston, had previously admitted guilt in the scheme. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with support from the Houston Police Department, Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, and the Department of State. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Smith and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Stotts are leading the prosecution.