Blademir Angulo Audeves, a 42-year-old Mexican national, pleaded guilty on August 20 to charges of being an alien in possession of a firearm and knowingly employing unauthorized aliens. Sentencing is set for October 28, 2025, before United States District Judge Humetewa.
According to his plea agreement, Audeves owned and operated El Taqueria El Taco Loko LLC, which included one physical restaurant location and two mobile food units in the Phoenix metropolitan area. He admitted to hiring at least twelve workers who were not authorized to work or reside permanently in the United States.
Audeves also acknowledged that he did not have legal status to be in the country and knowingly possessed three firearms with ammunition in July 2025. His immigration status made it illegal for him to possess these weapons.
The charge of alien in possession of a firearm carries a maximum sentence of fifteen years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The charge for knowingly employing unauthorized aliens can result in up to six months’ imprisonment and a $3,000 fine per unauthorized worker involved.
The prosecution stems from Operation Take Back America, an initiative by the Department of Justice that aims to combat illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and address violent crime. This operation combines resources from multiple federal programs such as the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona is prosecuting the case.
“Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).”
