Blademir Angulo Audeves, a 42-year-old Mexican national, pleaded guilty on August 20 to charges of being an alien in possession of a firearm and knowingly employing unauthorized aliens. The plea was entered before United States District Judge Humetewa, with sentencing set for October 28, 2025.
According to court documents, Audeves owned and operated El Taqueria El Taco Loko LLC, which included one physical restaurant and two mobile units in the Phoenix metropolitan area. He admitted to hiring at least twelve individuals who were not legally authorized to work or reside in the United States.
Audeves also acknowledged that he possessed three firearms and ammunition in July 2025. As a non-citizen without legal status in the country, he was prohibited from possessing these weapons.
The charge of being an alien in possession of a firearm carries a potential sentence of up to fifteen years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge for knowingly employing unauthorized aliens can result in up to six months’ imprisonment and fines reaching $3,000 per unauthorized worker involved.
This prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America, which coordinates resources from various Department of Justice programs such as the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The initiative aims to address illegal immigration, dismantle criminal organizations, and reduce violent crime by focusing efforts across federal agencies.
Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona is prosecuting the case.
"Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN)."
"Homeland Security Investigations is conducting the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution."
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