Previously convicted Albuquerque man charged with firearms possession under Operation Legend

               ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Robert Maestas, 48, of Albuquerque, appeared in federal court on Oct. 7 for a detention hearing. Maestas is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and will remain in custody pending trial.

              According to a criminal complaint, on Sept. 3, after Maestas reportedly shot at the home of his former girlfriend, a search of his residence and vehicle revealed that Maestas allegedly was in possession of a pistol and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, Maestas cannot legally possess a firearm or ammunition.

              If convicted, Maestas faces up to 10 years in prison. An indictment is only an allegation.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

              The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Albuquerque Police Department investigated this case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Presiliano Torres is prosecuting the case.