The New York Post reported that Leonel Moreno, the “migrant influencer” who mocked America on social media and encouraged migrants to squat in the homes of US citizens in order to steal them and make them their own, is facing potential federal firearms charges.
The Post exclusively learned of and reviewed Internal federal documents showing the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has been in contact with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding Moreno, and is mulling charges against Moreno.
The Post reports the “exact charges are not known, but sources said they would likely be brought under a section of the Gun Control Act which prohibits those on parole from possessing, shipping, transporting or receiving firearms or ammunition.”
The Geauga County Jail confirmed to The Post Wednesday that Moreno remains in its custody, where he is being held on behalf of ICE. John Fabbricatore, a former ICE field office director in Denver, told The Post any possible further charges would “escalate” the case against Moreno and possibly allow authorities to keep him in custody longer.
If it were to pursue charges, the ATF would have to issue a warrant “mandating” Moreno to appear before a magistrate judge, Fabbricatore said, adding he would also have to be transferred into the custody of the US Marshals.
Charges under [Gun Control Act section] 922.g are a serious matter and can result in significant legal consequences for Moreno. “This should be a warning to any illegal aliens that possessing a firearm unlawfully will result in criminal charges and hopefully lead to a conviction,” said Fabbricatore, who is running for Congress in Colorado’s Sixth District.
In a statement to The Post, an ICE spokesperson said: “Leonel Moreno is an unlawfully present citizen of Venezuela, who illegally entered the country April 23, 2022.”
“Moreno was placed into the Alternatives To Detention program by Border Patrol and was told to report to the Enforcement and Removal Operations office within 60 days of arriving at his destination.
“Moreno did not report as required. On March 29, 2024, Moreno was arrested in Gahanna, Ohio by officers with ERO Detroit’s Columbus office and is currently detained pending further immigration proceedings.”
