Illegal alien sentenced, likely to be deported (Lahontan Valley News)

Illegal alien sentenced, likely to be deported
Tuesday, May 17, 2011

By Steve Puterski
Lahontan Valley News

An illegal alien received two suspended sentences for possessing a firearm and false identification on Tuesday in District Court.

Miguel Angel Valenzuela of Mexico received two sentences of 12-32 months in prison, but the sentences were suspended to allow an U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) hold to apply. The sentences would run concurrently if Valenzuela serves time.

Judge David Huff made the ruling so Valenzuela could be transferred to ICE, where he is likely to be de port ed.

Valenz ue la pawned a stolen fire arm and used fake identification in doing so. His attorney, Paul Drakulich, said Valenzuela has no criminal history and was given the weapon by a female companion. In turn, Valenzuela was going to send a portion of the money to his family in Mexico.

Drakulich added the fake ID wasn't obtained for the purpose to defraud anyone out of money, but to obtain work so his client, again, could send money home.

He was charged with possession of false identification and an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.

Valenzuela spoke to Huff through an interpreter and said he would just like an opportunity to help his family in Mexico.