Yakima, Washington – A local man, Damian Iniguez, has been sentenced to 75 months in federal prison followed by 3 years of supervised release for unlawful possession of a firearm. The sentencing was announced by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker after being handed down by United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke.
Court documents reveal that on September 8, 2023, a Zillah Police Officer discovered a suspicious vehicle idling at a gas station for an extended period. Inside, Iniguez was found slumped in the driver’s seat. The engine was running and the vehicle was in gear with Iniguez’s foot on the brake. Iniguez did not comply with police commands, leading to his arrest.
During a pat down, the officer found a loaded Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol in Iniguez’s sweatshirt pocket. The firearm, equipped with an extended magazine, was reported stolen from Oregon in 2021. As a convicted felon, Iniguez was legally barred from possessing firearms.
Richard R. Barker emphasized the risk posed by felons with firearms, stating, "The unlawful possession of firearms by convicted felons poses a threat to the safety of our communities." He highlighted the collaborative efforts of local and federal law enforcement to mitigate such threats, adding, "We will continue to pursue accountability for those who disregard federal firearm laws and endanger public safety."
ATF Seattle Special Agent Jonathan Blais addressed Iniguez’s actions, affirming, "Felons know they should not possess firearms. Yet, Mr. Iniguez chose to possess a firearm – a stolen one, even worse." He noted that the case demonstrates the commitment of the ATF and U.S. Attorney to enforce federal firearms laws in Washington.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives along with the Zillah Police Department. Prosecutors for the case were Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin D. Seal and Courtney R. Pratten.
