U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans | U.S. Department of Justice
United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that Frander Ulises Espinoza-Rugama, a 27-year-old native of Nicaragua, was indicted on December 5, 2024. The charge is for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, specifically a Smith & Wesson Model SW9VE nine-millimeter handgun. This indictment follows his arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations officers for immigration law violations.
Espinoza-Rugama could face severe penalties if convicted. The maximum penalty includes up to 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
U.S. Attorney Evans emphasized that an indictment is merely an accusation and the defendant's guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a strategy to strengthen PSN by fostering trust in communities, supporting organizations that prevent violence, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes.
The investigation involved the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations along with the Kenner Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis from the General Crimes Unit will handle the prosecution.
