Arrested in Tijuana for a Gun, Ammunition, or Firearm Parts?
If you or a loved one has been arrested in
Tijuana, Mexicali, Los Algodones, or anywhere in Mexico for introducing a firearm, ammunition, magazines, or gun parts into the country, you may be facing a
serious federal weapons charge.Under Mexico’s Federal Firearms and Explosives Law (
Ley Federal de Armas de Fuego y Explosivos), bringing a weapon across the border—even unintentionally—can result in a
minimum sentence of approximately 7 years in federal prison, and significantly more depending on the firearm and caliber involved.Many U.S. gun owners legally possess firearms such as:
- 9mm pistols
- .40 caliber handguns
- .45 caliber handguns
- Tactical rifles
- High-capacity magazines
- Ammunition and firearm components
However, in Mexico, many of these calibers and weapons are classified as
exclusive use of the military and law enforcement, which substantially increases penalties.
Federal Introduction of Firearms Into Mexico
Weapons cases are prosecuted under the
Ley Federal de Armas de Fuego y Explosivos, along with the
Código Penal Federal and the
Código Nacional de Procedimientos Penales.If authorities classify the weapon as restricted for military use, consequences may include:
- Mandatory minimum prison sentences
- Preventive detention (no bail in many cases)
- Limited or no eligibility for plea agreements involving release
- Strict federal prosecution
Recent legislative updates have made firearm introduction cases
more severely penalized, reducing opportunities to negotiate outcomes that allow freedom. In many situations, the defense must focus on
winning the case in court, not negotiating a deal.
A U.S. Concealed Carry Permit Does NOT Protect You in Mexico
One of the most common misunderstandings involves U.S. firearm permits.Even if you have:
- A valid U.S. concealed carry permit
- A legally registered firearm in the United States
- Current or former U.S. law enforcement credentials
These factors
do not automatically dismiss or reduce a federal firearms charge in Mexico.Mexican judges require formal authorization from the Mexican government—specifically from Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (SEDENA)—to legally possess or carry firearms in Mexico.Such authorizations are generally limited to:
- Mexican military personnel
- Mexican law enforcement
- Government-authorized security companies regulated by Mexican authorities
U.S. permits, registrations, or law enforcement status are
not recognized as valid authorization under Mexican federal law.
“I Forgot It Was in My Vehicle” Is Not a Legal Defense
Many arrests occur at border crossings when individuals state:
- “I forgot it was in my glove compartment.”
- “It was legally registered in the U.S.”
- “I didn’t know it was illegal in Mexico.”
Unfortunately, lack of knowledge does not prevent federal prosecution. Border inspections are strict, and possession alone can trigger severe federal charges.Without immediate and strategic legal intervention, defendants can face
years in federal prison, often without eligibility for bail.
Why Hiring the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer in Tijuana Is Critical
Because firearm charges frequently involve mandatory detention and limited plea options, early and aggressive defense strategy is essential.An experienced federal defense attorney may:
- Challenge the classification of the firearm or caliber
- Analyze legality of the search and inspection
- Review chain of custody and ballistic documentation
- Identify constitutional or procedural violations
- Develop a litigation-focused defense strategy
When plea bargains with freedom benefits are restricted, every detail of the case must be carefully examined.
About Fabian Meneses – Criminal Defense Attorney
My name is
Fabian Meneses, Criminal Defense Attorney and Founder of Meneses Legal.I am included on the list of verified attorneys by the United States Consulate General Tijuana and we specialize in assisting foreign nationals arrested in Mexico to obtain their freedom as quickly as legally possible.Our firm defends U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals charged with federal firearm and weapons offenses in:
- Tijuana
- Mexicali
- Los Algodones
- Throughout Mexico
We can travel and represent clients nationwide in federal firearm cases.
Federal Gun Arrests at the Border – Immediate Action Required
If you or a loved one has been detained at a border crossing, airport, or federal checkpoint for:
- Introduction of a firearm
- Possession of military-exclusive calibers
- Transport of ammunition
- Gun parts or high-capacity magazines
Time is critical.With recent legal changes increasing penalties and limiting bail or negotiated release, building a strong defense strategy from the very beginning is essential.
Contact a Firearm Crime Defense Lawyer in Tijuana Today
If you are facing federal weapons charges in Tijuana, Mexicali, Los Algodones, or anywhere in Mexico, contact us immediately for a confidential case evaluation.
USA Phone: 619-777-8627
Mexico Phone: 664-500-6896When mandatory prison exposure is on the table and freedom depends on litigation strategy, experience and immediate action make the difference.
