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Press Release

Nogales Man Indicted for Trafficking in Firearms

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Arizona

Firearms Trafficker Found with Multiple Rifles, Pistols, and Magazines

TUCSON, Ariz. – 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.