Illegal Alien Indicted on Firearms Charges

LAREDO, Texas – A 32-year-old Mexican national has been indicted for illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Jaime Cruz-Romero was originally charged by criminal complaint. Today, the grand jury returned the one-count indictment. He is expected to appear for his arraignment before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sam S. Sheldon in the near future.

On or about Aug. 10, 2019, Cruz-Romero was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition during a traffic stop, according to the charges.

The complaint alleges that on or about Aug. 10, 2019, Cruz-Romero was driving a 2008 Hummer H3 when law enforcement stopped him for disregarding a traffic signal. He did not have any identification, according to the charges.  

Authorities then searched the vehicle and found a 9-millimeter pistol and a magazine containing ammunition.

If convicted, Cruz-Romero faces up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam E. Harper is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until convicted through due process of law.