Previously convicted felon pleads guilty to federal firearm charge

           ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Albert Vallejos, 43, of Albuquerque, pleaded guilty on Aug. 9 in federal court to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Vallejos will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.

           Vallejos was indicted on March 27, 2019. According to the indictment and other court records, on Feb. 5, 2019, in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, Vallejos fired a handgun at a victim from his vehicle and fled the scene. On Feb. 13, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop and arrested Vallejos for an outstanding warrant. Law enforcement later discovered a firearm and two loaded magazines inside the vehicle.

           Vallejos has at least four previous felony convictions, including for shooting at or from a motor vehicle, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and being a felon in possession of a firearm. As a previously convicted felon, Vallejos cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.

           Vallejos faces up to 10 years in prison.

           The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Trembley is prosecuting the case.