A Las Cruces man is facing federal charges after allegedly selling cocaine and a machinegun conversion device to undercover agents, according to a March 27 announcement by authorities.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address drug trafficking and illegal firearms sales in the region. Officials said these types of investigations are part of broader initiatives aimed at reducing violent crime and keeping illegal weapons off the streets.
Court documents show that on August 19, 2025, investigators arranged a controlled purchase in Las Cruces where Victor Andrew Pardo Jr., age 26, sold a machinegun conversion device for $300. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives later determined that the device met the legal definition of a machinegun. A records check revealed Pardo did not have any firearms registered under the National Firearms Act.
Investigators also conducted two separate controlled purchases of cocaine from Pardo: one on January 27, 2026 in El Paso involving approximately 249.6 grams for $5,000; another on February 19, 2026 at his Las Cruces residence involving about 251.6 grams for $5,000. Laboratory testing confirmed both substances were cocaine.
Pardo is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, and unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm. He will remain in custody pending trial; if convicted he faces up to twenty years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison said today’s announcement was made alongside Omar Arellano of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Sarah Mauricio from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Phoenix Field Division. The investigation involved several agencies including DEA; ATF; Department of Army’s Criminal Investigations Division; New Mexico State Police; Texas Department of Public Safety; and El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Aragon Martinez is prosecuting the case. Authorities remind that “a criminal complaint is merely an allegation” and “all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”
