A Fresno Bulldogs street gang member who fled police and crashed into another car in October is heading to federal prison for four years, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

U.S. District Judge Dale A. Drozd sentenced Mario Alberto Rangel, 29, for being a felon in possession of a firearm on Tuesday.

According to court documents, on Oct. 22, 2019, Fresno police attempted to stop Rangel for a traffic violation, but he refused to pull over. After colliding with another car, Rangel tried to run away. However, officers caught up to him.

While searching Rangel’s vehicle, officers found a loaded shotgun in the back seat. Rangel is prohibited from possessing firearms because of his prior criminal record, which includes a 2018 conviction for assault with a firearm.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio prosecuted the case.

Have a Tip About Illegal Gun Activity?

Rangel’s case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s effort to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.

The public is encouraged to report illegal gun activity at 1-800-283-4867, ATFTips@atf.gov.