Pharr Man Handed Sentenced For Involvement In Straw Purchase Of Firearms

McALLEN, Texas – Alejandro Mendoza, 19, of Pharr, has been handed a federal prison sentence for making false statements in the acquisition of firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees (FFL), commonly known as straw purchasing, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today along with Melvin King, special agent in charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Mendoza pleaded guilty Aug. 31, 2012.

Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane handed him a 30-month-term of imprisonment to be followed by two years of supervised release.

In July 2012, ATF agents discovered information regarding several firearms purchases made by Mendoza. Subsequent investigation determined he had, in fact, purchased four AK-47 rifles. He admitted he provided false information on ATF forms that the firearms were purchased for himself, when he knew they were actually for another individual. 

Previously released on bond, Mendoza was permitted to remain on bond and was ordered to voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility Feb. 11, 2013.

The investigation was conducted by the ATF. Assistant United States Attorney Juan Villescas prosecuted the case.