Former jailer convicted for straw purchasing firearm receiver

McALLEN, Texas – A former sheriff’s office jailer has pleaded guilty for his role in the straw purchasing of a firearm receiver on behalf of a Mexican national, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

Gonzalo Everardo Gonzalez, 32, Roma, admitted to making false statements during the purchase of a firearm.

On June 13, 2023, in connection with an acquisition of a firearm receiver, Gonzalez falsely stated on a form associated with the purchase that he was the true purchaser of the receiver. The investigation revealed this statement was false.

In fact, Gonzalez purchased a firearm receiver on behalf of a Mexican national who intended to smuggle it into Mexico. 

At the time he made the false statement, Gonzalez was a jailer with the Starr County Sheriff’s Office.

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane will impose sentencing October 8. At that time, Gonzalez faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He will remain on bond pending his sentencing.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the joint investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Cahal P. McColgan is prosecuting the case.