Olvin Javier Gutierrez Ponce, a 44-year-old resident of Bradenton, has been indicted on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that in July 2025, Gutierrez Ponce, knowing he was illegally present in the United States, possessed a firearm in violation of federal law.
If convicted, Gutierrez Ponce could face up to 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also states that the United States intends to forfeit two firearms—a Taurus 9mm pistol and a Springfield 9mm pistol—believed to be connected to the alleged offense.
“An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.”
The investigation involved the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), and the Bradenton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Abigail K. King will prosecute the case.
This prosecution is part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative by the Department of Justice focused on addressing illegal immigration, dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime. The operation combines resources from programs such as Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods to strengthen enforcement efforts.
