In a significant development in the fight against illegal firearms trafficking, a convicted felon in Bexar County, Texas, has been arrested for allegedly selling stolen firearms to an undercover federal agent. This arrest is part of a broader investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) targeting gun traffickers in South Texas, a region known for its high volume of firearms linked to crimes in Mexico.
Key Details of the Bexar County Arrest
Albert Rene Saucedo, a San Antonio resident with a prior conviction for robbery and unlawful use of a motor vehicle, was indicted on July 17 in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas. According to court documents, Saucedo allegedly sold or brokered the sale of 21 firearms, including 12 shotguns, three semi-automatic rifles, and six guns, to an undercover ATF agent between early May and mid-June. Some of these weapons were reportedly stolen, and others, including a short-barreled rifle, were unregistered, violating federal regulations.
The investigation began when Saucedo allegedly advertised firearms on social media, catching the attention of ATF agents. On May 12, he offered a Diamondback DB15 .556-caliber pistol for $800, marking the start of a rapid series of transactions. The firearms involved included high-powered, magazine-fed shotguns and rifles designed for NATO .556-caliber ammunition, known for their high velocity and lethality.
Charges and Potential Consequences
Saucedo faces multiple charges, including:
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Firearms trafficking
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Possession of a firearm by a felon
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Possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle
If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is also seeking forfeiture of all firearms involved, citing “reasonable cause” to believe they may have been intended for smuggling out of the United States.
South Texas: A Hotspot for Gun Trafficking
The arrest underscores South Texas’s role as a critical hub in the illegal firearms trade. According to the Wilson Center, 449 guns sold in Bexar County alone were traced to crime scenes in Mexico between 2020 and 2022. Texas and Arizona lead the nation in firearms linked to cross-border crimes, making federal investigations like this one a priority for law enforcement.
The ATF’s broader investigation targets multiple individuals involved in gun trafficking across South Texas, highlighting the region’s significance in addressing illegal arms flows. The potency of the weapons involved, such as those using high-velocity NATO rounds, raises concerns about their potential use in violent crimes both domestically and abroad.
Why This Matters
Illegal firearms trafficking poses a significant threat to public safety, fueling violence in communities and across borders. The ATF’s efforts to disrupt these networks demonstrate a commitment to curbing the flow of dangerous weapons. This case also highlights the importance of monitoring social media platforms, where illegal sales are increasingly advertised.
For residents of Bexar County and beyond, this arrest serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against gun-related crime and the role of federal agencies in protecting communities from the consequences of illegal trafficking.