A New Mexico man has entered a guilty plea to charges of selling firearms without the necessary federal license, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Nevada. Celso Daniel Ruiz of Santa Fe engaged in buying firearms in bulk and then reselling them in both the United States and Mexico, capitalizing on the lucrative but illegal trade.
From December 2020 to January 17, 2023, Ruiz managed to quickly and repeatedly purchase at least 145 firearms, from licensed dealers in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada. Despite not having a license himself, he would then resell these firearms, knowing well they were destined to cross borders and enter various parts of Mexico. Eighteen of these firearms were later found registered in Mexico. In a bold move to conduct his business, Ruiz did not hesitate to regularly cross the U.S.-Mexico border shortly after making his purchases.
During his court appearance, Ruiz admitted to his actions and is now facing a potential sentence of up to five years in prison and three years of supervised release. According to the announcement by the U.S. Attorney's Office, United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II is slated to deliver Ruiz's sentence on, Sunday, August 20. The eventual penalty will be determined in accordance with the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated thoroughly by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with Jennifer Cicolani, Special Agent in Charge for the ATF, and United States Attorney Sigal Chattah making the announcement of the plea. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dan Cowhig. The ATF continues to urge anyone with information on illegal firearms transactions to come forward by calling the ATF tips line or reporting information anonymously online.
As the nation continues to grapple with the consequences of illegal arms trafficking, cases like that of Ruiz remind the public of the tenacity required to ensure the enforcement of federal laws. Civil authorities remain vigilant, and the public's assistance plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of firearm regulations and public safety.
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