Robstown Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison
A 45-year-old Robstown man will spend the next 15 years in federal prison after attempting to fire a handgun at a Nueces County sheriff’s deputy during a July 2024 traffic stop. The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced the sentence on Nov. 13, highlighting the seriousness of the incident and the danger posed to law enforcement.
Guadalupe Calderon III pleaded guilty on July 31 in the U.S. District Court serving the Southern District of Texas, Corpus Christi Division. He admitted to felony possession of a firearm — a charge made more severe because he is a previously convicted felon prohibited from having any weapons under federal law.
Court Reviews Video of Traffic Stop Incident
Dramatic Footage Shows Attempted Shooting
During the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge David S. Morales reviewed video footage captured during the July 26 traffic stop. The deputy had pulled over Calderon’s truck and asked for his driver’s license and proof of insurance. According to the court, that’s when Calderon aimed a Ruger pistol directly at the deputy’s face and pulled the trigger.
Although the gun did not fire, prosecutors said the intent was clear — and deadly.
Suspect Fled the Scene
After the failed shot, Calderon immediately sped away, prompting a police search across the county. Approximately six hours later, officers located him riding in another vehicle. A search of that vehicle uncovered the Ruger pistol in the back seat where he had been sitting, along with more than 30 rounds of ammunition and a high-capacity drum magazine.
Authorities noted that Calderon later admitted to owning the firearm and acknowledged pointing it at the deputy earlier that day.
Judge Issues Maximum Sentence Allowed by Law
Judge Morales sentenced Calderon to 180 months, which is the statutory maximum for his offense. The judge further required that he serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. In the courtroom, Morales emphasized that he would have imposed a longer sentence if federal law allowed it.
Calderon has remained in custody since his arrest and will continue to be held by federal authorities.
Investigation Led by Multiple Agencies
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives led the investigation into the case, with support from the Nueces County Sheriff’s Office and Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Martin handled the prosecution.
Federal officials said the sentence reflects ongoing efforts to protect law enforcement officers and hold violent offenders accountable, especially when firearms are involved.
Prosecutors emphasized that they will aggressively pursue federal charges against anyone who threatens an officer’s life, as gun violence concerns continue to rise in South Texas.