Former police officer sentenced to federal prison for illegal firearm possession
San Juan, Texas – A 45-year-old San Juan resident has been sentenced to 41 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. The case marks a significant legal consequence for Michael Gallegos-Martinez, a former police officer with a prior felony conviction for drug possession.
Traffic Stop Leads to Arrest
On June 25, 2023, Gallegos-Martinez was driving a Cadillac CTS when he failed to come to a complete stop at an intersection. Law enforcement officers initiated a routine traffic stop and immediately noticed that he appeared nervous. When asked about any illegal items in the vehicle, he denied having any firearms or narcotics. However, a K-9 unit was deployed, and the dog alerted officers to the presence of contraband.
A search of the vehicle revealed a Rossi Model 461 .357 caliber Magnum revolver concealed inside a grocery bag hanging from the gear shift. Officers also found 25 grams of cocaine, a bottle of Xanax pills, and approximately $25,000 in cash. Given his previous felony conviction, Gallegos-Martinez was prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law.
Court Sentencing and Criminal History
After pleading guilty on December 3, 2024, Gallegos-Martinez appeared before Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane for sentencing. The court ordered him to serve 41 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. During the hearing, the judge considered additional evidence that provided insight into the defendant’s past.
Gallegos-Martinez had once served as a police officer before being convicted of a felony for possession of a controlled substance. The court also noted the large amount of cash found in his vehicle, along with the presence of narcotics, as factors that contributed to the sentencing decision. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the defendant’s past criminal history, making it clear that the law does not allow convicted felons to carry firearms.
Gallegos-Martinez has remained in custody since his arrest and will be transferred to the Bureau of Prisons to serve his sentence.
Investigation and Prosecution Efforts
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with assistance from the Alamo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted the case, ensuring that Gallegos-Martinez faced the full extent of the law for his actions.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, a federal initiative that focuses on reducing violent crime through collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies. The program aims to target the most violent offenders and enhance crime prevention efforts within communities.
