Former police officer, felon admits to illegally possessing firearm

McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A McAllen man and former police officer pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a felon, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced.

On June 25, 2023, authorities stopped Michael Gallegos-Martinez for a traffic violation.

According to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s office, during the traffic stop, authorities noticed Gallegos-Martinez appeared nervous. He claimed there were no firearms or narcotics within the vehicle.

The release stated that a K-9 alerted authorities and prompted a search of the vehicle where a Rossi, Model 461 magnum revolver was found in a grocery bag hanging from the gear shift.

They also discovered 25 grams of cocaine, a bottle of Xanax pills and approximately $25,000 in cash.

Authorities discovered Gallegos-Martinez had previously served as a police officer before being convicted of a felony for possession of a controlled substance.

Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane accepted the plea and has set sentencing for Feb. 2, 2025. At that time, Gallegos-Martinez faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.