A Laredo man faces a decade in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal possession of a machinegun, U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani announced earlier. The 28-year-old Francisco Isaias Rodriguez was caught with a modified firearm during a botched traffic stop where he attempted to flee from authorities. Rodriguez was found with a Glock 9-millimeter pistol modified with a "switch," allowing it to fire multiple rounds with a single trigger pull.

The incident took place on March 12 when law enforcement sought to pull over a truck for a traffic violation, Rodriguez, then a passenger, bolted from the vehicle moments before the stop. Despite being ordered to halt, he continued on, attempting to discard a shoulder bag over a fence during the chase. When recovered, inside the bag, authorities found not only the modified Glock but also an assorted collection of ammunition, black latex gloves, and a ski mask, as the Department of Justice reported.

Further investigations confirmed that Rodriguez had no registered machinegun or any other weapon under his name in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. By admitting guilt, he acknowledged his awareness of the federal laws prohibiting him from owning such firearms.

Sentencing for Rodriguez is forthcoming with U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo presiding over the case. Rodriguez could see up to 10 years in federal prison and may have to pay a fine as steep as $250,000. Until his sentencing he will remain in custody, the hearing date is yet to be scheduled.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Laredo Police Department. As Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Bajew is handling the prosecution, this case is part of a broader effort by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, a multi-agency initiative focused on dismantling high-level criminal organizations that pose a threat to the country.