Temich-Ramirez Charged with Illegally Possessing a Shotgun

Burlington, Vermont - The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Ciro Temich-Ramirez, 35, has been charged by criminal complaint with illegal possession of a firearm by an individual who is unlawfully in the United States. Temich-Ramirez initially appeared before Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on October 3, 2023 and Temich-Ramirez was ordered detained pending trial.

According to court documents, on September 30, 2023, a federal agent encountered Temich-Ramirez less than one mile south of the United States and Canada border in North Troy, Vermont. Temich-Ramirez was standing next to a vehicle. Following a brief conversation, a physical altercation ensued between the agent and Temich-Ramirez. Additional federal agents responded and, after they restrained Temich-Ramirez, found a shotgun in Temich-Ramirez’s car. Temich-Ramirez, who is a Mexican national, is prohibited from possessing firearms because he is an individual unlawfully in the United States.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that a criminal complaint contains allegations only and that Temich-Ramirez is presumed innocent until and unless he is convicted of a crime. As presently charged, Temich-Ramirez faces a maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment if convicted as charged. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the federal district court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and statutory sentencing factors.

United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts and rapid response of the United States Border Patrol.

The United States is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig. Temich-Ramirez is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls, Esq.