CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 40-year-old Corpus Christi resident has pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
Pat Anthony Lacour admitted that on March 15, 2019, he was in possession of a loaded Ruger 9mm caliber, semi-automatic pistol.
On that date, law enforcement pulled him over for a traffic violation. As they approached his vehicle, he appeared to be concealing something in the front passenger side. They also smelled burnt marijuana and asked Lacour to step out of the car.
Authorities then searched the vehicle and found a Ruger 9mm caliber, semi-automatic pistol under the passenger seat. It was loaded with seven rounds of ammunition.
Lacour is a convicted felon for robbery, aggravated assault, assault family violence and deadly conduct discharging a firearm. As such, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per under federal law.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton will impose sentencing on May 11, 2022. At that time, Lacour faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacoo, Firearms and Explosives conducted investigation with the assistance of Corpus Christi Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Marin prosecuted the case.